Tk 4,445cr spent on covid vaccines, equipment since FY21: Health minister

Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain today told parliament that Tk 4,445.54 crore has been spent since the 2020–21 fiscal year on importing and purchasing Covid-19 vaccines, essential equipment, and transportation.

Responding to a query from lawmaker Joynal Abdin, the minister said a total of Tk 4,685 crore had been allocated for the purpose during the period.

Joynal Abdin sought details on allocation and expenditure for vaccine and equipment procurement during the pandemic, and asked whether any irregularities or corruption had occurred in vaccine imports and whether the government would investigate.

In reply, the minister said Tk 4,394.8 crore was spent on vaccines. Additionally, Tk 30.88 crore was spent on syringes, Tk 19.57 crore on transportation for distributing vaccines and syringes nationwide, and about Tk 1 crore on syringe shipping.

He said no complaints regarding vaccine procurement have been submitted to the ministry so far. However, the government remains committed to ensuring transparency and accountability and will take action if specific allegations arise.

Answering another question, Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad) said efforts would be made to reduce costs when the hajj 2027 package is finalised and announced, considering pilgrims’ needs and overall circumstances.

Responding to a query from MP Lutfur Rahman, he added that the hajj 2026 package has already been finalised, with payments for expenses in both Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh completed. Visa and related procedures have also been completed in line with Saudi timelines.

He said hajj flights are scheduled to begin on April 18.