PM Modi to launch nationwide HPV vaccination drive on February 28

By Admin

28 Feb, 2026

Major Step Towards Women’s Health Protection

In a landmark public health initiative, Narendra Modi will launch a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign on February 28, 2026, from Ajmer.

The campaign aims to protect 14-year-old girls across India from cervical cancer   a disease that continues to pose a serious health risk to women nationwide. The programme will begin at 11:30 a.m., with all States and Union Territories joining virtually, as announced by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Focus on Preventing Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer remains the second-most common cancer among women in India. Each year, nearly 80,000 new cases are reported, and over 42,000 women lose their lives to the disease.

Persistent infection with high-risk HPV types is the primary cause of cervical cancer. By targeting adolescent girls before exposure to the virus, the government aims to significantly reduce future cases and mortality rates.

Use of Gardasil Vaccine

India will use Gardasil, a quadrivalent HPV vaccine that offers protection against HPV types 16 and 18   the two major cancer-causing strains   as well as types 6 and 11.

The vaccine is designed to provide strong immunity and long-term protection against HPV-related diseases, making it a critical tool in cancer prevention.

Free and Voluntary Vaccination

According to Health Ministry officials, the vaccination drive will be voluntary and provided free of cost. The one-time vaccine will be administered at designated government health facilities, including:

• Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (Primary Health Centres)
  
  

• Community Health Centres
  
  

• Sub-district and District Hospitals
  
  

• Government Medical Colleges
  
  

This wide distribution network ensures accessibility even in rural and semi-urban areas, promoting equitable healthcare delivery.

Strengthening Public Health Infrastructure

The nationwide rollout highlights India’s growing focus on preventive healthcare. By prioritizing adolescent vaccination, the government aims to build long-term immunity within the population and reduce the economic and emotional burden of cancer treatment.

The initiative reflects a proactive approach to women’s health and aligns with broader national efforts to improve healthcare access, early disease prevention, and public awareness.

A Transformational Public Health Initiative

The HPV vaccination campaign marks a historic milestone in India’s fight against cervical cancer. With strong coordination between the Centre, States, and Union Territories, this programme has the potential to significantly lower cancer incidence rates in the coming decades.

As the country moves toward preventive healthcare strategies, this initiative stands as a powerful step toward safeguarding the health and future of millions of young girls across India.