On March 1, the second phase of the vaccination began in India. The first phase covered all medical professionals and front-line warriors. They were the priority beneficiaries as they are exposed to the risk of the COVID infection every day.

The second phase will vaccinate all people over the age of 60 (anyone who turned 60 on or before January 1, 2021, is eligible) and those above 45 with co-morbidities. Elderly citizens are a high-risk group because their immune systems are weaker compared to younger people and also comorbidities can be found in a large portion of the 60+ population.

The second phase of the vaccination drive will also cover all people between the ages of 45 and 59 years who have been diagnosed with comorbidities.

How will you book a slot for yourself or a friend/family member? Read on for all the details.

Register on Co-WIN 

Last year the Union Government had announced that all those who will need the vaccine doses will have to get themselves registered on Co-WIN. Now Co-WIN is operational. Registrations started on March 1, 9 AM onwards. 

All you have to do is visit www.cowin.gov.in at 9 AM or afterward to book a slot.

Here are a few pointers for you to remember-

• Slots will be open from 9 AM to 3 PM every day.
• You can book any slot on the very day you register (depending on availability)
• On a particular day, you can also book an appointment for a future date (depending on availability).
• You will also be given a slot for the second dose 28 days after your first dose. The second dose will be administered at the same COVID Vaccination Centre.
• Cancellation of the first dose slot will result in a cancellation of the slot for the second dose as well.
• You have to use your mobile number to register.
• With one phone number, you can book COVID vaccine slots for 4 beneficiaries.
• The photo identity proof of all the four beneficiaries must be uploaded separately.
• To register each beneficiary, you can use any of these documents- Aadhar card, PAN card, Voter ID card, MGNREGA Employment Card, passport, driving license, pension document, health insurance card, employment/ service card.

If you are unable to book a slot through Co-WIN, you can opt for on-spot registration at a COVID Vaccination Centre.  

Slots are likely to fill up quickly and you might have to wait for a while before you can book your appointment. Be patient and wait for your turn.

If you want know more about India’s COVID vaccination drive, please fill in the survey shared below –

Continue to observe all COVID precautions before and after vaccination. And if you do not come under the second phase category, make sure you help your family member and neighbours get registered for their COVID doses. 

Follow the precautions and take care care of your health.

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