NEW DELHI: Nearly three lakh 14-year-old girls have been vaccinated within two weeks of the launch of India’s HPV vaccination campaign, marking an encouraging start to this critical public health initiative, health ministry officials said on Tuesday.
Officials reported that several states, including Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Odisha, and Mizoram, are leading the nationwide campaign.
The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine plays a vital role in preventing cervical cancer, one of the most common cancers affecting women.
“The enthusiastic participation seen so far reflects growing awareness among parents, schools, and communities about the importance of early protection,” an official said.
Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 28 February, the campaign has been strategically rolled out during the academic period, with examinations currently underway in many regions.
“With the conclusion of the exam season approaching, the momentum of the vaccination drive is expected to accelerate significantly, enabling wider coverage and ensuring that more girls benefit from this life-saving intervention,” the official added.
Health authorities are coordinating with schools, local bodies, and healthcare workers to ensure smooth access to the vaccine. Parents and guardians are urged to support and encourage eligible girls to get vaccinated at the earliest.
The official emphasised that the campaign is more than just a drive – it is a collective movement towards a healthier, cancer-free future for daughters.
The single-dose Gardasil-4 vaccine is administered free of charge at government health facilities, including rural and underserved areas. The nationwide initiative aims to target approximately 1.2 crore 14-year-old girls across all 36 states and Union Territories.
Vaccines are administered under the supervision of medical officers, and vaccination sites are linked to 24x7 Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) Management Centres to manage any adverse events promptly.
HPV vaccination is voluntary, and parental consent is mandatory prior to administration.
India reported over 80,000 cervical cancer cases in 2023–24.