<span style="color: #222222;">The News Services Division brings glimpses of &quot;The Year that was&quot; in our Special Year Ender series. Today we are taking a look at the steps taken by the Union Government in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic. Government is keeping a close watch over Covid situation in the country and globally since its inception. India has taken several pre-emptive and pro-active steps under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With the active support of States and Union Territories, Centre took proactive measures to effectively contain and prevent the spread of Covid-19 disease. AIR correspondent reports that the Central Government has taken several steps to effectively tackle the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthen the health infrastructure in the country. The Government is providing all possible assistance to the States and Union Territories to enhance their preparedness and capabilities to deal with the COVID pandemic. <br />”<br />”Several measures have been undertaken by the Union Government to provide technical guidance, improving health infrastructure, ensuring availability of essential items like medicines, PPE kits, masks, ventilators, medical oxygen and food during the pandemic.<br />”<br />” Hospital bed capacities were increased and temporary treatment facilities were set up in hospitals across the country. To meet the growing demand of medical oxygen, PSA plants are being set up in each district. Covid vaccines have been provided free of cost to all the eligible population of the country aged above 18 years. Centre announced India COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Package worth over 23 thousand crore rupees. 64 thousand crore rupees PM Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission has been started with the aim of strengthening the health infrastructure across the country.&nbsp;</span><br />