This country may be the first to approve the British drugmaker's vaccine, while the British medicine regulator is still reviewing trial data. India, known for being the largest vaccine producer globally, aims to begin vaccinating its population next month and is also considering emergency use authorization for vaccines from Pfizer Inc and Bharat Biotech. Providing vaccines to India, which has high infection rates, will be a significant step in fighting the pandemic. The AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is seen as important for lower-income countries and hot climates due to its affordability, ease of transport, and long shelf life at regular fridge temperatures. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization in India reviewed the applications on Dec. 9 and requested more information from the companies, including Serum Institute of India, which is producing the AstraZeneca vaccine. The world's largest vaccine manufacturer, SII, has shared all the necessary data, according to two sources. Authorities are still waiting for more information from Pfizer and Bharat Biotech, as mentioned by a government health adviser at a news briefing. Indian health officials are in communication with British officials regarding the AstraZeneca vaccine, with expectations of approval by next week. Recent data from AstraZeneca's trials in the UK and Brazil showed varying efficacy rates, with the Indian regulator only considering the two full-dose regimen for approval. One of the sources reported that the serum is prepared and there could be an initial supply of 50 to 60 million doses. The sources chose not to reveal their identities due to ongoing discussions and the possibility of timeline changes. CDSCO chief V.G. Somani did not respond to a comment request. Bharat Biotech and Pfizer refused to comment, and SII did not respond to an email seeking comment. India has not yet finalized a contract for vaccine supply with any company, however, the Serum Institute of India (SII) has already accumulated over 50 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine and aims to produce a total of 400 million doses by July.