PM Modi hails India’s world-first DNA-based Covid vaccine approval

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the approval for the world's first DNA-based 'ZyCov-D' vaccine from the Zydus Cadila group is a testimony to the innovative zeal of India's scientists.

In a tweet, the Prime Minister wrote: "India is fighting Covid-19 with full vigour. The approval for world's first DNA-based 'ZyCov-D' vaccine of @ZydusUniverse is a testimony to the innovative zeal of India's scientists. A momentous feat indeed."

The comment came in response to a tweet by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) under the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare: "After evaluation of interim Phase III clinical trial results in consultation with Subject Expert Committee, CDSCO has approved DNA Covid-19 vaccine (ZyCoV-D) of M/s Cadila Healthcare for restricted use in emergency situation in India for 12 years and above."

India’s Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya noted: "'ZyCov-D' is the 6th approved #Covid19 vaccine in India, and the 2nd indigenously developed one. PM @NarendraModi ji's vision of #AatmanirbharBharat and Make in India delivers another significant accomplishment!"

Zydus Cadila received approval for Emergency Use Authorisation (EUA) from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for ZyCoV-D last week, the world's first and India's indigenously developed DNA based vaccine for Covid-19 to be administered in humans including children and adults 12 years and above.

(ANI)