India reached 2 billion COVID immunizations, while new cases are at a four-month high

• India celebrates world’s largest and longest-running inoculation campaign.
• COVID-19 vaccinations hit 2 billion on Sunday, with booster doses underway for all adults.
• Data shows the COVID death toll at 525,709, with 49 deaths recorded overnight.

As daily infections reached a four-month high, official statistics revealed; that the Indian government’s COVID-19 immunizations reached 2 billion on Sunday. Booster doses are currently being administered to all individuals.

The world’s largest and longest-running immunisation programme, which started last year; was celebrated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he praised the vaccination milestone.

“India makes history once more!” Added Modi in a tweet. The opposition has accused the prime minister of mishandling the outbreak; which experts believe killed millions of people. The accusations are denied by the government.

According to data from the health ministry, 49 fatalities were reported overnight; bringing the COVID death toll to 525,709.

The number of new cases increased to 20,528 during the last 24 hours; the highest number since February 20.

The majority of COVID-related limitations have been eliminated in the 1.35 billion person nation; and global travel has made a strong comeback.

Covishield, a locally produced vaccine by AstraZeneca (AZN.L), made up around 80% of the immunizations. Others include the Sputnik V satellite from Russia; and the locally produced Covaxin and Corbevax.

In order to stop the spread of illnesses, the federal government has stepped up its booster campaign; increasing its efforts in the eastern states of Assam, West Bengal, and Karnataka in the south.