Assocham has urged the Finance Ministry to allow 200% deduction in tax computation for the expenditure on research and development of the COVID-19 vaccine in the Budget for 2021-22.The chamber in its pre-budget memorandum to the Finance Ministry stated that for the purpose of section 35 of the Income Tax Act, “scientific research" should include any research related to COVID-19. ''To encourage the taxpayers to develop a cure/vaccine against COVID-19 and to cater to the requirement for other basic drugs/any other generic medicines, a special deduction of 200% of the amount expended for research including developing antidotes, any medications/ drugs and vaccinations should be introduced'', the chamber suggested.It said a 200% deduction can.