New Delhi: The Union Health Ministry has set an ambitious target of administering 1.15 crore HPV vaccinations every year, marking a significant step in India’s fight against cervical cancer. The nationwide programme was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who underscored the importance of preventive healthcare for young girls.
The vaccination campaign will focus on girls aged 14 years across all states and Union territories. The doses will be provided free of cost at government health facilities, including Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, community health centres, district hospitals, and medical colleges. Officials said the initiative aims to ensure equitable access and reduce the burden of cervical cancer among women.
Health experts highlighted that the HPV vaccine is a proven safeguard against cervical cancer, which remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in India. By scaling up vaccinations to over a crore annually, the government hopes to build a strong shield of protection for future generations.
The programme also reflects India’s broader commitment to preventive healthcare. Awareness campaigns will accompany the rollout to encourage families to participate, with officials confident that the initiative could significantly lower cervical cancer cases in the coming decades and position India as a global leader in large-scale vaccination efforts.
