India Launches Free HPV Vaccine for Girls Nationwide

Starting February 28, millions of Indian girls will get free protection against cervical cancer as Prime Minister Narendra Modi launches a nationwide HPV vaccination campaign from Rajasthan. The initiative targets 14-year-old girls and those turning 15 within the first 90 days, addressing a disease that currently kills 75,000 Indian women annually.

Cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer among Indian women, affecting 125,000 people each year. Most cases stem from persistent HPV infections that the vaccine prevents.

The vaccine will be available at nearly 30,000 immunization centers located in government health facilities across India. These centers already have trained staff, proper storage equipment, and facilities to manage any reactions.

During the first 90 days, vaccination will be available daily at all centers. After that, it continues twice weekly on routine immunization days, making it accessible for girls who miss the initial window.

States have already received half their required vaccine doses, calculated at roughly 1% of each state's population. In Rajasthan alone, 1,000 vaccination points are ready to deliver the 0.5 ml shot.

The government has launched awareness campaigns through schools to reach families. Parents can provide consent through the U-win app or paper forms, ensuring guardians stay informed about their daughters' healthcare.

Safety measures include a mandatory 30-minute observation period after vaccination and requirements that girls eat breakfast before getting their shot. Centers will offer refreshments and engaging activities to make the experience comfortable.

The Ripple Effect

This campaign represents one of the largest public health investments in girls' health in India's history. By protecting this generation from cervical cancer, the initiative will save thousands of lives and reduce the healthcare burden on families who often face devastating costs treating advanced cancer.

The program also strengthens India's immunization infrastructure, which already serves millions through its universal immunization program. Health workers trained for this campaign gain valuable skills that benefit other vaccination efforts.

Beyond preventing disease, the campaign sends a powerful message about prioritizing girls' health. When governments invest in protecting young women from preventable cancers, it reflects growing recognition of gender equity in healthcare access.

The free vaccine removes financial barriers that might otherwise prevent families from protecting their daughters. No girl will be turned away because of inability to pay.

A generation of Indian girls will now grow up with protection their mothers never had.