Russian vaccine on its way to India, pact signed with Dr Reddy's for trials

Talks are also on with five major Indian manufacturers here to produce the vaccine for India and the world

Russia's vaccine candidate, Sputnik V, which is based on human adenovirus platform, will soon be available in India if the regulator gives its approval.

Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), a sovereign wealth fund, has signed a pact with Hyderabad-based Dr Reddy's Laboratories (DRL) for clinical trials and distribution of 100 million doses of Sputnik V in the country. Besides, talks are on with five major Indian manufacturers to produce the vaccine, not only for India but for the world.

Adenoviruses most commonly cause respiratory illnesses.

The cost of clinical trials would be shared equally between the two partners, DRL said on Wednesday. Shares