Second Covid wave: Does the vaccine policy need a total overhaul? 

Amid the reports of shortage of Covid vaccines from several states, an expert panel of India's central drug authority has recommended granting approval to Russian COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V for restricted emergency use, paving the way for a third vaccine to be available in the country.

Meanwhile, after reports of shortage of drugs from Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat, the Centre has announced a ban on the export of Remdesivir, used in coronavirus treatment.

So, does the vaccine policy need a total overhaul? What explains the shortage of key drugs and hospital beds?