Sharad Pawar advocates Bharat Ratna for SII founder Cyrus Poonawalla

NCP chief Sharad Pawar has advocated for the prestigious Bharat Ratna award to be conferred upon Cyrus Poonawalla, the founder of the Serum Institute of India (SII), in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the vaccine sector.

Pawar's endorsement came as he presented the Late Mohan Dharia Nation Building Award to Poonawalla during a ceremony at the Bal Gandharva auditorium. The event, held on Wednesday, also saw the presence of former Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan.

Pawar praised Poonawalla's unparalleled achievements, noting that three out of every five babies worldwide receive vaccines manufactured by the SII. He highlighted the institute's pivotal role in providing Covid-19 vaccines globally, especially to African nations where the need is most acute.


Expressing dissatisfaction with the previous awards conferred upon Poonawalla, Pawar emphasized the need for a Bharat Ratna, citing the magnate's significant contributions to vaccine manufacturing, particularly for the benefit of the younger generation.

Chavan echoed Pawar's sentiments, acknowledging Poonawalla's humanitarian efforts. He emphasized that Poonawalla's decision to offer vaccines at an affordable price has potentially saved millions of lives.