Timeline of the COVID-19 pandemic in India (2021)

The timeline of the COVID-19 pandemic in India (2021) details the significant events and developments in India during the year 2021 as the country faced the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. This timeline includes key events related to the spread of the virus, government responses, and the vaccination campaign.

January 2021

COVID-19 cases in India

In January 2021, India began its vaccination campaign against COVID-19. The government approved two vaccines for emergency use: Covishield, developed by AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford, and Covaxin, developed by Bharat Biotech. The vaccination drive started on January 16, targeting healthcare workers and frontline workers in the initial phase.

February 2021

The vaccination campaign continued to expand, with more healthcare workers receiving the vaccine. By the end of February, India had administered millions of doses, and the government announced plans to expand the vaccination to senior citizens and those with comorbidities starting in March.

March 2021

In March, India saw a resurgence in COVID-19 cases, particularly in states like Maharashtra, Punjab, and Kerala. The government began to implement localized lockdowns and restrictions to curb the spread of the virus. The vaccination drive was expanded to include people over 60 years of age and those over 45 with certain health conditions.

April 2021

COVID-19 cases in India

April marked the beginning of a devastating second wave of COVID-19 in India. The country reported record numbers of daily cases and deaths, overwhelming the healthcare system. Shortages of medical oxygen, hospital beds, and essential medicines were reported across the country. The government expanded the vaccination campaign to include all adults over the age of 45.

May 2021

The second wave continued to wreak havoc in May, with India reporting over 400,000 new cases in a single day at its peak. The government announced that vaccinations would be available to all adults over the age of 18 starting May 1. International aid began to arrive, including oxygen concentrators, ventilators, and vaccines.

June 2021

Vaccination drive in Bhopal, India

In June, the number of new cases began to decline, and the government focused on ramping up the vaccination drive. The central government took over the procurement and distribution of vaccines, providing them free of charge to all adults. The vaccination campaign gained momentum, with millions of doses administered daily.

July 2021

By July, the situation had improved significantly, with a steady decline in new cases and deaths. The government continued to encourage vaccination, and efforts were made to reach rural and remote areas. The focus shifted to ensuring the availability of the second dose for those who had already received their first dose.

August 2021

Free medicine for COVID-19 in Madhya Pradesh

In August, India continued its vaccination efforts, with a focus on increasing the coverage of the second dose. The government also began preparations for a potential third wave, emphasizing the importance of maintaining COVID-19 appropriate behavior and increasing healthcare infrastructure.

September 2021

September saw a continued decline in cases, and the vaccination campaign reached a significant milestone with over 1 billion doses administered. The government announced plans to reopen schools and other educational institutions in a phased manner, with strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols.

October 2021

In October, the focus remained on vaccinating the remaining eligible population and preparing for the festive season. The government urged citizens to celebrate festivals responsibly to prevent a resurgence of cases.

November 2021

By November, India had made significant progress in controlling the pandemic, with a majority of the adult population having received at least one dose of the vaccine. The government continued to monitor the situation closely, especially with the emergence of new variants of the virus.

December 2021

In December, India prepared for the possibility of booster doses and the vaccination of children, as new variants posed potential threats. The government remained vigilant, with ongoing efforts to ensure the availability of vaccines and medical supplies.

Related pages

• COVID-19 pandemic in India
• COVID-19 vaccination in India
• Public health in India