According to sources, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has requested that all universities, colleges, and technical institutes display banners congratulating Prime Minister Modi for “beginning free immunisation for 18 years and above age group.” The Prime Minister’s new COVID-19 vaccine guidelines, which were released earlier this month, went into force on Monday.
Those aged 18 and over are eligible for free immunisation under these criteria. UGC secretary Rajnish Jain instructed university administrators to post the banners on their social media sited in a WhatsApp message sent to them on Sunday (20th June 2021). While he did not return the calls of many journalists requesting comments, officials from at least three institutions verified that the “directive” has been sent to them.
Jain purported text message read: “Beginning tomorrow, June 21, 2021, the Government of India will provide free immunisation to anyone aged 18 and up. In this regard, universities and colleges are cordially asked to display these hoardings and banners in their institutions. The approved design of creatives and hoardings and banners in English/Hindi as provided by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, are attached for your ready reference.
