The Modi government will procure 300 million units of COVID-19 vaccine from Hyderabad-based firm Biological-E, an official statement said on Thursday. As per the deal, the vaccine doses will be manufactured and stockpiled by the manufacturer from August-December 2021.

Currently, the vaccine of Biological-E is undergoing Phase-3 clinical trials. The vaccine being developed by Biological-E is an RBD protein sub-unit vaccine and is likely to be available in the next few months, the statement read.

The proposal of Biological-E was examined and recommended for approval after due diligence by the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC).

"The arrangement with Biological-E is part of the wider endeavor of the Government of India to encourage indigenous vaccine manufacturers by providing them support in Research & Development (R&D) and also financial support," the ministry said.

The Biological-E COVID Vaccine candidate has been supported by the government from Preclinical stage to Phase-3 studies. Department of Biotechnology has not only provided financial assistance in terms of grant-in-aid of over Rs 100 cr but has also partnered with Biological-E to conduct all animal challenge and assay studies through its Research Institute Translational Health Science Technology Institute (THSTI), Faridabad. (SAM)