(a) whether the Government has introduced many vaccines in the public health system without conducting proper studies and tests under the influence of international agencies and due to vested interests;
(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor; and
(c) the steps the Government proposes to take to stop such vaccines in the public health system till proper tests and studies are conducted in this regard?
THE MINISTER OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)
(a) to (c): Regarding the public health use of vaccines including the introduction of
newer vaccines under Routine Immunization Programme, the Government of India obtains
technical advice from National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI). The said
recommendations are then considered by the Government before taking a final decision.
However, the vaccines that are considered for use in India in the public health system are
introduced only when these have been approved by Drugs Controller General of India following
standard criteria about their safety and immunogenicity.