Countries are attempting to determine what the consequences are. Many see this as the first indication that the Centre will secure the embryo -- or even vaccines -- at rates it negotiates, and states might then be requested to obtain their stocks.
The BJP announcement promising free Covid-19 vaccination for all in Bihar as a part of its election manifesto has taken several states by surprise.
Particularly, since until today, the vaccine Conversation between the Centre and the states has identified who should receive it on a priority basis.
Hence the Announcement of a free vaccine as An election promise singling out one state adds a political turn to a subject -- Covid direction -- which has been mainly framed by cooperative instead of competitive federalism.
Countries Are Attempting to Determine What the Consequences are. Many see this as the first sign that the Centre will secure the vaccine -- or even vaccines -- at rates it negotiates and conditions may be requested to obtain their stocks.
National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration -- part of the Centre's Covid task force -- made it clear, in its first meeting, that states shouldn't chart their distinct pathways for procurement.
Additionally, significantly, minutes after the Announcement made by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, BJP IT mobile's Amit Malviya tweeted: "Like all apps, Centre will provide vaccines to state at a minimal rate. It's for the nation Govts to decide if they wish to provide it for free or otherwise. Health is a state subject, Bihar BJP has decided to give it free. Simple."
It isn't so straightforward. Once the BJP -- judgment both In Patna and the Centre -- has declared free vaccines for everybody in Bihar, few countries will have a contrary stand. More states are expected to make their statements.
For the Centre to assure free vaccine across
The UIP is a completely funded Central authorities Scheme that, currently, provides free vaccination to all children -- such as 2.67 crore newborns -- and 2.9 crore pregnant girls annually.
Under the UIP, free vaccines are Provided for two diseases in the federal level: Diphtheria, Pertussis (whooping cough), Tetanus, Polio, Measles, Rubella, a severe form of youth Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, and Meningitis & Pneumonia. Regionally and in select endemic districts, completely free vaccines are provided for three more ailments: Rotavirus diarrhea, Pneumococcal Pneumonia, and Japanese Encephalitis. Bringing Covid into this listing will require work.
Today's statement is political. But for it to be translated into policy and for the adult population to be contained in the UIP, modalities on pricing have to be worked out with the states."
Minister T S Singh Deo from Congress-ruled Chhattisgarh reflected the views of Many states: "We have never been told anything by the Government of India about Purchasing this vaccine. It's not an issue if we (states) are requested to pay. If we have to pay, we shall...but vaccines should be made available in percentage To the people. A vaccine cannot be assured for a specific state. The Election Commission must take cognizance of this Announcement."
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