Hydroxychloroquine is an old and inexpensive drug used to treat malaria. Last month, India banned export of hydroxychloroquine in the midst of views that the drug could be used as potential anti-viral agent to protect healthcare workers treating COVID-19 patients from the infection.
President Donald Trump has warned India that the US may retaliate if India did not export hydroxychloroquine despite his personal request, saying he would be surprised if New Delhi did not relent as it has good relations with Washington.
Following this strong words and intense pressure from US President Donald Trump, Modi left BJP government on Tuesday bowed down to pressure allowed partial exports of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) to its neighbouring countries and those who have been ‘particularly badly affected’ by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Following “one out burst in a way to do damage control Spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Srivastava said “ India has always maintained that the international community must display strong solidarity and cooperation. This approach also guided our evacuation of nationals of other countries,”
“In view of the humanitarian aspects of the pandemic, it has been decided that India would licence paracetamol and HCQ (hydroxychloroquine) in appropriate quantities to all our neighbouring countries who are dependent on our capabilities,” he said while responding to media queries on the issue.
It is to be noted India has also received requests from several other countries including its immediate neighbours Sri Lanka and Nepal for supply of hydroxychloroquine but post Trump outburst Indian agreed and removed its ban for Exports .
This news of opening up Indian Exports for banned drugs triggered in Pharma Companies shares to trade 10% up bullish in Indian Sensex market .
In Social media many micro bloggers criticised PM Modi and questioned the sudden tilt in policy decision of drugs .
Prime Opposition Party Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has tweeted “Friendship isn’t about retaliation. India must help all nations in their hour of need but lifesaving medicines should be made available to Indians in ample quantities first.”
