The first batch of anti-Covid oral drug 2-DG, developed by the DRDO, was released on Monday

New Delhi: The first batch of anti-Covid oral drug 2-DG, developed by the DRDO, was released on Monday by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Health Minister Harsh Vardhan.

The Drugs Controller General of India (DGCI) approved the 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) drug for emergency use as an adjunct therapy in moderate to severe coronavirus patients earlier this month.

Rajnath Singh and Harsh Vardhan

In his brief remarks, Singh said the drug has brought a new ray of hope for the treatment of Covid-19 patients.

"This is a great example of the scientific prowess of our country," he said.

At the same time, the defence minister said that it is not the time to relax and get tired as there is nothing definitive about the course of the pandemic.

"We do not need to be relaxed, nor should we get tired. Because this wave has come for the second time, and there is nothing definite about this. We have to take steps with full caution," he said at the event in DRDO headquarters.

CoronavirusSingh said the government has taken the overall situation seriously, whether it is the matter of oxygen supply or ensuring ICU beds or the arrangement of cryogenic tankers for transportation of liquid oxygen.

"I am happy to say that the Medical Corps has also decided to take back its retired doctors so that our health system can be strengthened further. I heartily commend such physicians who are joining this campaign even after their service," Singh said.

The defence minister also listed efforts of the armed forces in helping civilian authorities deal with the situation across the country.

However, he asserted that deployment of the armed forces for Covid-relief measures has not impacted their operational preparedness at the borders.