The Government of India is set to roll out a free nationwide HPV vaccination programme under the Swastha Nari vision, targeting 14-year-old girls to prevent cervical cancer. Backed by Gavi, over one crore Gardasil doses will be supplied, marking a landmark step in women’s preventive healthcare and cancer control.
In a historic public health initiative, the Government of India is launching the HPV vaccination programme for adolescent girls aged 14 years. This rollout, part of the Swastha Nari vision, aims to drastically reduce cervical cancer cases one of the most common yet preventable cancers among Indian women.
The quadrivalent vaccine Gardasil, protecting against HPV types 16 and 18, will be administered free of charge.
The programme follows the Union Budget 2024 announcement and is expected to begin within days, reinforcing India’s commitment to preventive healthcare and women’s empowerment.
Key Highlights
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Target Group: Adolescent girls aged 14 years across India.
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Vaccine: Quadrivalent HPV vaccine Gardasil, effective against HPV types 16 & 18.
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Scale: Over one crore doses supplied, backed by Gavi.
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Cost: Free of charge under government initiative.
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Health Impact: Aims to reduce cervical cancer burden significantly.
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Policy Context: Announced in Union Budget 2024, now being implemented nationwide.
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Call to Action: Parents and guardians urged to ensure eligible girls receive the vaccine.
Sources: Firstpost, ET HealthWorld, India Today