Centre Launches Free HPV Vaccination Drive For Women And Girls Across India
Government begins nationwide free HPV vaccination to prevent cervical cancer targeting girls aged 9 to 14 and women up to 45 aiming to reduce thousands of annual deaths.
In a major public health push, the central government has rolled out a free Human Papillomavirus vaccination programme aimed at protecting women and young girls from cervical cancer. The initiative seeks to tackle one of the leading causes of cancer related deaths among Indian women.
Cervical cancer, largely caused by the Human Papillomavirus, affects nearly 80000 women in India every year. Of these, more than 42000 lose their lives, translating to an average of 115 deaths daily. Health experts say early vaccination can significantly reduce the risk, especially when administered before exposure to the virus.
The vaccine being provided under the programme is Gardasil, which is otherwise expensive in the private market. Individuals opting for the vaccine privately may have to spend over Rs 10000 for the full course. By offering it free of cost at government facilities, authorities hope to remove financial barriers and increase coverage.
Under the new guidelines, girls between 9 and 14 years will receive two doses of the vaccine. Women aged 15 to 45 are required to take three doses for full protection. The government has set an ambitious target of vaccinating around 1.15 crore girls below the age of 14 each year.
The nationwide campaign was formally launched on February 28 in Ajmer Rajasthan by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The programme had earlier been announced in the Union Budget 2024 as part of a broader commitment to strengthen preventive healthcare for women.
Eligible beneficiaries can receive the vaccine at primary health centres, community health centres, sub district hospitals, district hospitals and government medical colleges. Detailed information regarding eligibility criteria and rollout procedures is expected to be shared following the official launch phase.
Public health specialists have welcomed the move, noting that widespread vaccination could dramatically reduce the burden of cervical cancer in the coming decades. For many families, the availability of a life saving vaccine at no cost offers both relief and hope for a healthier future.
