Brinda demands revival of vaccine PSUs

New Delhi, Apr 22 (UNI) Expressing concern over the closure of three public sector vaccine units, CPI(M) Member Brinda Karat today demanded the Government revive the units by effecting their technological upgradation.

During Special Mentions in the Rajya Sabha, Ms Karat said the Ministry of Health's annual plan tabled in Parliament showed that the three units were in operation, but the fact was that they had been closed, which has been done behind Parliament's back.

She said she had come to know that the government was allowing the Hindustan Latex to start a vaccine plant at the cost of Rs 150 crore, which not understandable in the light of the fact that the PSUs were doing their job well.

Instead of closing the units, the government should come out with a plan for their technological upgradation, she said. Mr Amar Singh of the Samajwadi Party also supported her demand.

Taking up the issue of Indians and Pakistanis languishing in jails in both the countries even after having undergone their sentence, Mr Singh said the government should come out with exact figures and and tell the House what steps were being taken by both the countries to end the plight of these people.

Sanjay Raut of the Shiv Sena raised the issue of shortage of spare parts and tyres of Sukhoi fighter aircraft, and Ms Hema Malini (BJP) tried to draw the attention of the House towards the ''dismal scenario of women' in the country.

Ms Ansuiya Uike demanded the government restore supply of gas to Ferozabad glass units as these units were prohibited by court from using other fuels because of the city's proximity to Agra.

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