On Friday, an official gave a statement as per which the Goa government shall launch a special vaccination drive for individuals who do not have government-issued photo IDs. This inoculation drive shall commence from today and cater to Indian citizens without valid documents and Nepali citizens residing in the state. A welcome move, this decision has been taken in the larger interest so that chances of COVID-19 contamination are reduced.
At least 100 individuals required to conduct one session
As per directions received from the Union Ministry for Health and Family Welfare, the special vaccination drive will be held in both North Goa and South Goa districts. In this regard, the State Immunization officer has been quoted saying- “We will be vaccinating Indian nationals, who for some reasons do not have any photo IDs or a valid phone number. Nepali citizens who are working in Goa, will also be vaccinated using the same SOP.”
Further, it has been reported that those who wish to get the immunization jabs will have to reach the designated vaccination centres. They will have to bring whatever documents they have, to prove their respective citizenship and then, the facilitating officers appointed by the District Collectors shall certify them. It has been noted that in order to organise one session, at least 100 such individuals are required.
Steps taken to check the pandemic threat
Apart from this initiative, the Goa government has also extended the state-wide curfew to curb the spread of the virus. The state has also ramped up its border security protocols to prevent the entry of the Delta Plus variant from Maharashtra. Moreover, as per official statements, Goa is readying its medical infrastructure to keep the expected third wave at bay as well.
-With inputs from IANS