Include certain elements in vaccination drive towards CSR to encourage private cos to inoculate workforce: CII to govt

The taskforce has also recommended that the government utilise private sector capacity from phase one itself of the vaccination drive.

The CII Taskforce on Vaccines has recommended inclusion of certain elements in the vaccination programme as part of the 2 per cent corporate social responsibility (CSR) expenditure required to be undertaken by a class of profitable entities, saying it will encourage the private sector to inoculate its workforce and help enhance the reach of vaccines.

The CII is also working with the Healthcare Sector Skill Council (HSSC) to support the government with assessment of all trainers. (Bloomberg)

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Taskforce has made several important submissions to V K Paul, Member, Niti Aayog and Rajesh Bhushan, Health Secretary and the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for Covid-19 (NEGVAC), sources said.

Among these, the industry body has identified the elements in the vaccination programme, which if supported or undertaken by companies may be considered under the 2 per cent CSR spend.

Under the Companies Act, 2013, a certain class of profitable entities are required to spend at least 2 per cent of their three-year annual average net profit towards CSR activities for social good or affirmative action.

The taskforce has also recommended that the government utilise private sector capacity from phase one itself of the vaccination drive, by undertaking it in a public-private-partnership mode.

Besides, a comprehensive legal framework document entailing certain issues related to safeguarding and limiting the liability or compensation of various stakeholders involved in vaccine distribution, delivery and administration etc, has been prepared by the taskforce, which is currently being reviewed and will be shared shortly with the NEGVAC, sources said.

The CII is also working with the Healthcare Sector Skill Council (HSSC) to support the government with assessment of all trainers who are being trained in all states to administer the vaccines.

These will provide certifications by providers in partnership with HSSC and help amplify the efficacy and reach of these vaccinators.