After disastrously failed COVID-19 rapid test kits from Chinese companies- Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Zhuhai Livzon Diagnostics, Indian government has asked the respective states to stop using the faulty kits and return them.
“It needs to be stressed that ICMR hasn’t made any payment whatsoever in respect to these supplies. Because of the due process followed, (not going for procurement with 100% advance amount), the government doesn’t stand to lose a single rupee,” the government said.
Last week, the ICMR had asked the state governments to halt using the rapid test kits as the results were inconsistent and inaccurate.
The latest statement came several states raised concerns over performance of tests during the exercise that they undertook.
ICMR had provided rapid antibody test kits to states with clear instructions that they were to be used only for surveillance purposes.
“States are advised to stop using these kits procured from the two companies (Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Zhuhai Livzon Diagnostics kits) and return them to be sent back to the suppliers,” said the ICMR.
