Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that India takes pride in having the world’s largest COVID-19 vaccination programme and more than 54 crore people have already taken the vaccine doses.

In his Independence Day address from the ramparts of the Red Fort, the prime minister spoke about the country’s fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and praised scientists, doctors, paramedical staff among others.

He lauded those involved in vaccine manufacturing in the country, saying India did not have to depend on others for vaccines due to their efforts.

“We can say with pride that the world’s largest COVID-19 vaccination programme is going on in India. More than 54 crore people have already taken the vaccine,” he said.