India Launches Major HPV Vaccination Drive for Girls
On February 28, 2026, India embarked on a nationwide campaign to vaccinate approximately 1.2 crore eligible girls aged 14 years against human papillomavirus (HPV), a leading cause of cervical cancer. As of July 15, 2026, over 5.2 million girls have already received the HPV vaccine at no cost through designated government health facilities across all 36 states and union territories.
The HPV vaccine distribution is taking place at various health centers, including Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (Primary Health Centres), Community Health Centers, Sub-District Hospitals, District Hospitals, and Government Medical Colleges. This initiative is part of the Indian government’s broader strategy to combat cervical cancer through prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment.
Training and Awareness Efforts
Extensive training sessions have been conducted for medical and paramedical staff nationwide, ensuring they are well-prepared to administer the HPV vaccine effectively. The coverage of the vaccination campaign is monitored through the U-WIN portal, which serves as the digital vaccination tracking platform managed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
To address vaccine hesitancy and promote participation, the government is utilizing various awareness-generating strategies. These include informative materials such as radio jingles, posters, banners, along with digital content that debunks myths about the vaccine. High visibility on social media platforms also plays a crucial role in reaching audiences, particularly in rural, tribal, and urban slum areas.
Comprehensive Cancer Prevention Strategy
The Government of India’s multifaceted approach to cervical cancer prevention includes not only the HPV vaccination but also screening services, early diagnosis, and treatment available through Day Care Cancer Centres. This comprehensive strategy aims to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer and promote women’s health across the country.
In a recent statement, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel, highlighted the government’s commitment to improving cervical cancer care and ensuring widespread access to vaccines and treatment options. As the campaign progresses, efforts continue to increase both vaccine uptake and awareness about cervical cancer prevention.
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