Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday joined a growing list of the world leaders who have taken the COVID-19 vaccine to instil confidence among the public about the efficacy of the jab. Prime Minister Modi took his first dose of the indigenously developed Bharat Biotech's COVAXIN at New Delhi-based All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Monday morning.

''I appeal to all those who are entitled to take the jab. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free!'' Modi said as he hailed the Indian doctors and scientists who have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19.

As the world responds to the COVID-19 pandemic, some countries have faced the challenge of an overabundance of false information related to the vaccine.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres received the COVID-19 vaccine in January. Britain’s Queen Elizabeth, 94, and her husband Prince Philip, 99, were vaccinated against COVID -19 by a royal household doctor at Windsor Castle in the same month.

Then US Vice President Mike Pence also received the COVID vaccine at a televised White House event in December. Both US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris received the COVID-19 vaccine in December before assuming the office.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu received the COVID-19 vaccine in December. Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum received an experimental coronavirus vaccine in November.

Pope Francis and his predecessor Pope Benedict have also received the coronavirus vaccine. Saudi Arabia’s King Salman received the COVID-19 vaccine in January. His son and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman took the vaccine in December.

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