India Achieves Over 8 Million HPV Vaccine Doses for Girls
India has administered over 8 million doses of the HPV vaccine since launching its National HPV Vaccination Campaign on February 28, 2026. The campaign targets 14-year-old girls, providing the Gardasil-4 vaccine free at government health facilities. Parental consent is required, and the initiative has been supported by health authorities across several states, ensuring broad access to the vaccine.
India has reached a milestone in its National HPV Vaccination Campaign, with over 8 million doses administered to date. The program began on February 28, 2026, when it was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to provide protection against HPV infections and related cancers. Cervical cancer remains one of the most frequent diagnoses for women in the country, and the Union health ministry highlighted these figures as a sign of the vaccine's role in public health.
The campaign focuses on girls aged 14 years, providing the single-dose Gardasil-4 vaccine free of charge. It is available through a wide network of government facilities, including Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, primary and community health centres, district and sub-district hospitals, and government medical colleges. This broad availability reflects a policy of strengthening preventive care to lower cervical cancer rates nationwide.
Delivering the vaccine requires coordination between schools, local organizations, healthcare workers, and health authorities. To maintain safety, every vaccination is carried out under the supervision of trained medical officers. Sites are also connected to 24x7 adverse events following immunisation (AEFI) management centres, ensuring that any side effects are managed quickly. Parents provide consent for their daughters and can handle registration through the U-WIN platform.
States such as Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Odisha, and Mizoram have been particularly active in the rollout. Health officials are working within communities to explain the benefits of the program and encourage parents to bring eligible girls forward. To maintain a consistent approach across the country, operational guidelines have been shared with all states and Union Territories.
The progress of the campaign suggests a shifting landscape for public health in India. Beyond reducing the immediate burden of cervical cancer, the initiative establishes a framework for future large-scale health programs. As participation grows and awareness spreads, the potential for better health outcomes for women becomes more evident. This focus on prevention is intended to protect the health of future generations.
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