Topics Covered: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
Digital Green Certificate:
Context:
The European commission has unveiled a “digital green certificate” that could allow EU citizens who have been vaccinated, tested negative or recovered from Covid-19 to travel more freely within the bloc.
What is it?
- The digital document will contain a QR code and can be carried on a mobile phone.
- It has deliberately not been called a “vaccine passport” because some member states felt that would discriminate against those who had not yet been offered a shot.
- All EU citizens or third-country nationals who are legally staying in the EU will be able to use these digital certificates and thereby will be exempted from free movement restrictions.
Who will issue these certificates?
The certificate can be issued by authorities, including hospitals, testing centres and health authorities.
What is the need for such a document?
In the EU and across the world, the tourism industry has been severely impacted due to the spread of the disease.
Many countries have, therefore, been contemplating digital certificates or passports that will be proof that a person has been vaccinated or has recovered from COVID-19.
- In February, Israel became the first country to issue certificates called “vaccine passports” that will allow vaccinated individuals to use some facilities and attend events.
Sources: Indian Express.
