As per India’s inoculation strategy, the Central Government will be providing free vaccines to adults across states against COVID-19 starting 21st June. As per the new vaccine policy, the Central Government will purchase 75% of the vaccines produced by pharma companies; later, it will be distributed amongst states and Union Territories for free. With the help of these vaccines, everyone above the age of 18 will be vaccinated. Going forward, states will not be involved in vaccine procurement from the open market.
Private sector hospitals can procure the remaining 25%; they can vaccinate individuals willing to pay for their jabs. Private sector hospitals will also be allowed to levy Rs 150 per dose as a service charge in addition to fixed rates.
The maximum price that can be levied per dose by private sector hospitals is:
- Rs 780 for Covishield
- Rs 1,410 for Covaxin
- Rs 1,145 for Sputnik V
Free vaccine doses will be allocated to states and UTs depending on population, disease burden, vaccination wastage, and the vaccination progress. The Centre has also capped the prices of COVID-19 vaccines in private hospitals.
Starting today, pre Co-Win registration will not be mandatory since all government and private vaccination centres will be providing onsite registration facilities.
As per the new vaccine policy, the Centre has introduced the concept of non-transferable electronic vouchers. This voucher will allow an individual to pay for a vaccine slot for another person at a private vaccination centre. These vouchers are being introduced to promote the spirit of ‘Lok Kalyan’. With the help of these vouchers, people can contribute financially and help the economically weaker sections (EWS) get vaccinated at private vaccination centres. The Reserve Bank of India will be approving these vouchers.
For any clarifications/feedback on the topic, please contact the writer at bhavana.pn@cleartax.in
Bhavana is a Senior Content Writer handling the GST vertical. She is committed, professional, and has a flair for writing. When away from work, she enjoys watching movies and playing with her son. One thing she can’t resist is SHOPPING! Her favourite quote is: “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity”.
