Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch a nationwide HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination campaign on February 28, 2026, aiming to combat cervical cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in India. This significant initiative will provide free vaccinations to 14-year-old girls at government health centers across the country, marking a major step forward in India’s preventive healthcare efforts.
Key Details of the Vaccination Campaign
The launch event will take place at 11:30 AM IST from Ajmer, with Chief Ministers, administrators, and health officials from all States and Union Territories joining virtually to participate in this momentous occasion. This collaboration reflects the government's commitment to ensuring that every eligible girl receives access to the vaccine, which has the potential to significantly reduce the incidence of cervical cancer in the future.
The Vaccine and Distribution
The vaccination will involve the single-dose Gardasil-4 vaccine, which has been proven effective in preventing several strains of the HPV virus, known to cause cervical cancer. The vaccine will be available at various health facilities, including:
- Primary Health Centres
- Community Health Centres
- Government Medical Colleges
To ensure that the vaccine is stored properly and administered without issues, Cold Chain Points have been set up at health facilities to maintain the required temperature for vaccine storage. Additionally, medical officers will closely monitor any adverse events following immunization (AEFI), ensuring that the vaccination process is safe for all participants.
Voluntary, Parental Consent Required
While the vaccination drive is voluntary, written consent from parents or guardians is mandatory for each girl receiving the vaccine. This step ensures that parents are fully informed about the vaccination and its benefits before it is administered.
Duration and Future Plans
The vaccination drive will run for a period of three months, to reach as many 14-year-old girls as possible during this period. Afterward, the HPV vaccine will be available on routine immunization days at health centers across India. This ensures that the initiative will continue to reach future generations, contributing to long-term improvements in public health.
