NDTV cited 'sources', saying Serum Institute and Bharat Biotech's proposals for emergency vaccines were not cleared due to 'inadequate safety and efficacy data'.
The decision was taken at a special meeting of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation, NDTV said.
The news was gradually reported by other media houses as well, all of whom cited "sources". This included News18 and India Today.
Soon after, however, the fact-check wing of the government's Press Information Bureau said NDTV's claim was "fake".
This was swiftly followed by the health ministry.
NDTV's story has not been taken down or modified.
This is a developing story.