New Delhi witnessed a landmark moment in public health as Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a nationwide HPV vaccination campaign targeting 14-year-old girls, earning high praise from World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Dr. Tedros took to social media platform X to commend PM Modi and the Health Ministry for this bold initiative aimed at shielding young girls from cervical cancer, a preventable yet deadly disease. ‘I commend Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Health Ministry for launching a nationwide HPV vaccination campaign to protect girls from cervical cancer,’ he posted, underscoring WHO’s commitment to global elimination efforts.
The campaign kicked off from Ajmer, Rajasthan, on Saturday, positioning India at the forefront of a national movement to eradicate cervical cancer, which ranks among the top killers of women in the country. Every year, it endangers millions, making prevention through vaccination a game-changer.
Designed to reach approximately 1.15 crore eligible girls across all states and union territories, the free vaccine will be administered at designated government health facilities, including Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, community health centers, sub-district and district hospitals, as well as government medical colleges and hospitals.
Trained medical officers will oversee each session, supported by skilled healthcare teams. Functional cold chain points at every site ensure vaccine integrity, with immediate medical support for any rare adverse events following immunization (AEFI). Parental consent is mandatory before vaccination.
Running in mission mode for the first three months, the drive allows daily vaccinations at specified locations. Post this intensive phase, it integrates into routine immunization schedules, ensuring sustained access.
This proactive step not only bolsters India’s health infrastructure but also aligns with global goals, promising healthier futures for generations of women. As Dr. Tedros emphasized, collaborative efforts worldwide are key to freeing girls and women from this curable scourge.