Union Government and European Union (EU) have collaborated for research programme named Horizon 2020 to develop Next Generation Influenza Vaccine to protect citizens across the globe. For this research programme, India’s Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and EU have committed Euro 15 million (Rs. 240 crore).

Horizon 2020 research project

Under this project, cost-effective and affordable influenza vaccine will be developed. It aims at advancing the efficacy, safety, duration of immunity, and reactivity against an increased breadth of influenza strains. Rs. 240 crore fund has been earmarked for research and innovation actions under this project.
The vaccine will be developed by EU-India consortia by bringing together multi-disciplinary stakeholders who represent any part of chain from lab to market. It will comprise minimum of three applicants from Europe (three different EU member states) or countries associated to EU programme Horizon 20202 and minimum three applicants from India. Other countries are also free to join this EU-India consortia.

Significance

The outcome of this project is expected to contribute to achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG-3) to ensure health and well-being for all. It will help international community to better prepare in the event of an influenza pandemic. It will also give boost India’s National Health Mission.