<span style="color: #222222;">Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya has said, emphasis on scientific research, manufacturing of Covid vaccines and setting up a huge network for nationwide vaccination drive have played key role in the speedy administration of 200 crore Covid vaccine doses to the people.<br />''<br />''India started nationwide Covid vaccination drive from 16th January 2021 and within the span of 18 months, it has accomplished a significant milestone of administering 200 crore Covid vaccine jabs to the eligible beneficiaries.<br />''<br />''Talking exclusively to All India Radio News on this achievement, Dr. Mandaviya said, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's successful Covid management is the main reason for the successful Covid vaccination drive in the country.<br />''<br />''He said, steps have been taken for the development of indigenous vaccines and to create awareness about the efficacy of Covid vaccines which resulted in successful administration of first dose to above 98 percent of the population.<br />''<br />''Highlighting the importance of Har Ghar Dastak campaign, Dr. Mandaviya said, continuous efforts have been made to accelerate the pace and coverage of Covid vaccination which resulted in successful administration of second dose to 97 percent population.<br />''<br />''Talking about the recent decision of the government to administer the free Covid precaution dose for the people above 18 years of age at Government vaccination centers from 15th July 2022 till the next 75 days, he said, this will help in boosting the immunity against the Covid.<br />''<br />''The Minister stressed that administration of Covid vaccine is essential for the immunisation of children.</span><br />