Factors Determining Covid-19 Vaccine Acceptance: An Empirical Investigation from India

ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 pandemic is far from over, caused by severe acute respiratory disease. Coronavirus2 continues to impact people's health and well-being worldwide significantly, and vaccination is the only way to stop the spread. As vaccines are developed, one of the Indian government's major challenges is vaccine adoption. The Indian government and policymakers should develop a plan to encourage and build trust in people for vaccine benefits. This study aims to identify the major issues acting as a barrier to vaccine hesitancy using primary data obtained in India between January-March 2021. This study shows that the 76% respondents were ready to accept the vaccine if it is available to them while 24% were hesitant. The study has investigated the association of demographic and geographical information of people with vaccines acceptance. The study has found that older people were more likely to accept the vaccines in comparison to young adults. A significant difference in vaccine acceptance due to the participants belonging to rural/urban areas is also observed. Additionally, we also noted that the educated people and working professionals were more likely to accept the vaccine than others. The study's findings may be beneficial to the government in developing efficient vaccination acceptance strategies for the Indian populace.