India's Health Ministry on Tuesday said that as many as 1.54 lakh (154,000) auxiliary nurse midwives will administer Covid-19 vaccine to people under the universal immunisation programme when the vaccination process begins.

Addressing a press conference, Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said: "There are around 2.39 lack vaccinators (auxiliary nurse midwives) across the country. Only 1.54 lakh ANMs to be used for Covid-19 vaccination. Covid-19 vaccination drive to have minimal impact on routine health services including routine immunisation."

He said that additional vaccinators are being arranged in collaboration with states and UTs. Additional procurement of syringes, and needles is also on track, training materials is being finalised and detailed implementation plans will be finalised with the state governments in coming days.

(IANS)