New Delhi: In a landmark move for women’s healthcare, the Union Government is set to roll out a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme. The initiative aims to provide life-saving protection against cervical cancer—the second most common cancer among women in India—targeting adolescent girls across all states and Union Territories.
The programme aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer, which claims over 34,000 lives annually in India. Health Ministry sources emphasize that the initiative is built on strong scientific evidence showing that a single dose of the vaccine provides robust, long-term protection when administered at the recommended age.
Key Features of the National Rollout
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Target Group: The programme will specifically target girls aged 14, ensuring they are vaccinated before potential exposure to the virus.
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Vaccine Type: India will utilize Gardasil, a quadrivalent vaccine that protects against HPV types 16 and 18 (responsible for 80% of cervical cancer cases in India) as well as types 6 and 11.
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Cost and Access: Vaccination will be voluntary and free of cost at all government health facilities, including Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (PHCs), District Hospitals, and Government Medical Colleges.
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Safety Protocols: Every session will be conducted under the supervision of trained Medical Officers, with sites linked to 24×7 emergency facilities for post-vaccination monitoring.
Strategic Partnerships and Supply
To ensure a steady and high-quality supply, the government has partnered with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. This globally supported procurement mechanism ensures that the vaccines meet stringent international cold-chain and regulatory standards. By integrating the HPV vaccine into the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP), India joins over 160 countries that have already institutionalized this preventive measure.
The Impact of Cervical Cancer in India
Cervical cancer remains a significant public health challenge in India, with nearly 80,000 new cases and over 42,000 deaths reported each year. ICMR data highlights a steady rise in mortality over the last five years, underscoring the urgency of this preventive drive. While the vaccine is currently available in the private sector for approximately ₹3,000 to ₹4,000 per dose, this national rollout ensures equitable access for girls regardless of their socio-economic background.
