Introduction
In a major public health initiative, the Indian government launched a targeted HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination campaign on 25 February 2026, targeting girls aged 14 across government schools and Anganwadi centres nationwide. The campaign is part of India’s broader National Immunisation Programme and aims to dramatically reduce the incidence of cervical cancer, which kills approximately 77,000 Indian women every year.
What is HPV and Why Does It Matter?
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted viral infection. Certain strains — particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18 — are responsible for approximately 70% of all cervical cancers. The WHO estimates that nearly all sexually active people will contract HPV at some point in their lives. Most infections resolve on their own, but persistent infections with high-risk strains can lead to cancer. Vaccination before exposure is highly effective — vaccines can prevent up to 90% of HPV infections.
India’s HPV Vaccine Landscape
India has two primary HPV vaccines available: Gardasil (quadrivalent, covers 4 strains) developed by Merck, and CERVAVAC — India’s own indigenously developed HPV vaccine, launched by the Serum Institute of India in 2023, at approximately Rs 200 per dose (compared to Rs 3,000+ for imported vaccines). The government campaign uses CERVAVAC, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in healthcare.
Policy & Constitutional Context
The Right to Health is recognised as a component of the Right to Life under Article 21 of the Constitution, as held by the Supreme Court in Paschim Banga Khet Mazdoor Samity v. State of West Bengal (1996). The National Health Mission (NHM) — launched in 2005 — is the framework under which national vaccination programmes are implemented.
📝 Practice Quiz — 5 MCQs
Answers with detailed explanations
📝 Practice Quiz — 5 MCQs
Answers with detailed explanations