The coronavirus vaccination drive is all set to enter a new phase. The Centre on Wednesday said that starting from March 1, individuals above the age of 60 will have access to vaccines at both government and private vaccination centres. The entry of the private sector is a piece of welcome news. Individuals above the age of 45 will have access to vaccines only if they have got comorbidities such as diabetes and BP.

The vaccination will be made available at 10,000 government and over 20,000 private vaccination centres. "The vaccine will be given free of cost at sarkari centres, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar today said.

What about the cost of a vaccine shot in private places? The amount will be determined by the government. The Union Health Ministry will finalize the price within 3-4 days. "We are in discussions with manufacturers and hospitals," the Minister said.

With the private sector being permitted, the pace of vaccination will surely pick up from next month.