Sikkim: State BJP President Writes to Union Minister; Requests to Increase Vaccine Supply

GANGTOK: In a letter to Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Sikkim BJP president D.B. Chauhan on Tuesday requested for an enhanced quota of Covid vaccine for the Himalayan state.

In his letter, the State BJP president highlighted that Sikkim has succeeded in vaccinating nearly 35% of its population so far.

It has almost completed the vaccination of 45+ age group citizens with the first dose of vaccine and currently, vaccination for the 18+ age group is going on, he said.

However, due to a shortage in recent times, the State government is unable to extend and intensify the drive across the State.

"Currently, the vaccination drive of the 18-44 year age group is limited to the State capital only,” said Chauhan.

On the other hand, Sikkim currently has a high infection rate among the States in the country with limited health facilities.

"In addition, Sikkim is a landlocked State which could be highly affected by monsoon. Therefore, with the onset of monsoon in the next few weeks, it is imperative to intensify the vaccination drive in advance,” added Chauhan.

In view of these issues, Chauhan urged the Union Health minister to increase the quota in supply of vaccines to Sikkim so that the first dose of vaccine is given to maximum number of citizens before the commencement of monsoon.