The Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI) has drawn the attention of the government to make the purchase of vaccines a top priority as cases of coronavirus infection are surging daily.

An emergency meeting of CNI on Monday called for immediate involvement of the private sector in the process to procure and distribute vaccines.

The Confederation said that the coronavirus vaccines manufactured by other countries would be provided to people in a ‘fast track manner’ if private sectors are involved in the import of jabs.

It has also demanded that employees working in the industry, business and transport sectors be vaccinated on priority basis to strengthen the supply chain even during difficult situations.

It has demanded income tax exemption for entrepreneurs investing in essential medicines, health equipment and food sector saying that exemption of tax would encourage private sector to invest in these fields.

The emergency meeting urged government to learn from the first wave of coronavirus pandemic and prepare now to prevent shortage of necessary beds, medicines, ventilators and other necessary health items.

CNI also has demanded to allow operation of private industries by taking necessary health safety protocols for the regular supply of daily necessities.

The Confederation urged industrialists and business owners to make arrangements for PCR tests and quarantine facilities any employee shows any symptoms.

Entrepreneurs have also demanded that hotels in the district be turned into COVID care centers.