The state cabinet on Wednesday endorsed the Health Department’s decision of diverting vaccine doses meant for the 18-44 years group to the group of people aged 45 years and above. It is also in favour of extending the lockdown-like restrictions till May 31.

Health Minister Rajesh Tope told reporters on Wednesday evening that some 20 lakh beneficiaries are in immediate need of the second dose because further delay would make their first dose ineffective.