Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination Campaign from Ajmer, marking the country’s first large-scale, single-dose HPV vaccination effort.
The initiative aims to protect girls under 14 from cervical cancer, a disease that remains a major public health challenge in India. With all states and union territories virtually connected and the vaccine administered free of charge at government health centers, the campaign marks a shift from treatment to prevention, based on strong scientific evidence and global public health guidance.
This article explains what the HPV vaccination drive means, why it matters, and how families can take informed action.
Understanding HPV and Cervical Cancer
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. While most HPV infections clear on their own, persistent infection with certain high-risk strains can lead to cancer over time.
Cervical cancer is closely linked to HPV. Nearly 90% of cervical cancer cases are caused by persistent HPV infection, primarily by types 16 and 18. In India, cervical cancer is the second-most common cancer among women, with nearly 80,000 new cases and over 42,000 deaths reported every year. This high burden highlights why prevention strategies, especially vaccination, are critical.
Why Vaccination in Early Adolescence Matters
HPV vaccination works best when given before exposure to the virus, which is why global health authorities recommend immunizing children and adolescents before the onset of sexual activity. Research consistently shows that vaccination at younger ages leads to stronger and longer-lasting immune protection.
According to the World Health Organization, children aged 9–14 years demonstrate particularly high vaccine efficacy. This scientific consensus forms the basis of India’s decision to target 14-year-old girls in the current campaign.
India’s Nationwide HPV Vaccination Drive
Who Is Eligible?
- All 14-year-old girls across India are eligible during the initial phase.
- Approximately 1.15 crore girls turn 14 each year, making this one of the largest adolescent vaccination efforts globally.
Vaccine Being Used: Gardasil
The campaign will use Gardasil, a quadrivalent HPV vaccine with extensive global safety and effectiveness data. Gardasil protects against:
- HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for nearly 70% of cervical cancer cases worldwide
- HPV types 6 and 11, which cause most cases of genital warts
The vaccine is manufactured by MSD Pharmaceuticals.
Single-Dose Strategy: Is It Enough?
Yes. In 2022, the WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization endorsed a single-dose HPV vaccine schedule for girls and women up to 20 years of age, citing “strikingly high efficacy” and durable protection.
- Girls aged 9–14 years: Single dose recommended
- Women above 21 years: Two doses, six months apart
- Immunocompromised individuals (including those with HIV): Three doses (or at least two if three are not feasible)
This evidence-based approach allows countries like India to protect more people quickly and efficiently.
How and Where the Vaccine Will Be Given
Free and Voluntary
The HPV vaccination under this drive is:
- Completely free of cost
- Voluntary, ensuring informed choice for families
Vaccination Sites
The 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
Booking Through the U-Win Platform
Appointments will be scheduled via the U-Win digital platform, modeled on the Co-Win system used during India’s COVID-19 vaccination drive. This helps streamline registration, tracking, and follow-up.
After the initial 90-day nationwide campaign, HPV vaccination will be integrated into the routine immunization program at health and wellness centers.
Vaccine Supply and Global Support
To ensure adequate supply, the GAVI Vaccine Alliance will provide 2.6 crore doses of the HPV vaccine to India, enough for two years of coverage.
- One crore doses have already arrived
- The remaining doses will be delivered over this year and next
India also has an indigenous HPV vaccine, Cervavac, developed by the Serum Institute of India. However, it is not being used yet because it is awaiting WHO approval, and further evaluation is ongoing for its effectiveness as a single-dose vaccine. Officials indicate a possible transition in about two years once approvals are complete.
Benefits Beyond Cervical Cancer
While cervical cancer prevention is the primary goal, HPV vaccination offers broader health benefits.
Protection Against Multiple Cancers
HPV infection is linked not only to cervical cancer but also to:
- Anal cancer
- Penile cancer
- Vaginal and vulvar cancers
- Throat (oropharyngeal) cancers
By reducing HPV transmission, vaccination lowers the risk of these cancers as well.
Herd Immunity
Vaccinating girls also decreases overall HPV circulation in the community. This indirect protection, known as herd immunity, helps protect boys and unvaccinated individuals, amplifying the public health impact.
Common Concerns About HPV Vaccination
Is the HPV Vaccine Safe?
Yes. HPV vaccines have been administered to hundreds of millions of people worldwide and are among the most closely monitored vaccines. Large studies and post-marketing surveillance consistently show a strong safety profile.
Does Vaccination Encourage Early Sexual Activity?
No. Extensive research shows no link between HPV vaccination and changes in sexual behavior. The vaccine is about cancer prevention, not sexual activity.
Why Focus Only on Girls?
While HPV affects all genders, cervical cancer accounts for a significant proportion of HPV-related deaths in India. Many countries launch programs focused on girls to rapidly reduce the burden of the disease and then plan to expand coverage later.
Actionable Tips for Parents and Guardians
- Learn from reliable sources: Use information from government health departments and international health organizations.
- Register early: Watch for announcements on the U-Win platform to book appointments promptly.
- Talk openly: Discuss vaccination with your child in an age-appropriate way, focusing on health and prevention.
- Keep records: Maintain vaccination documentation for future reference.
References
- Healthword
- Business Standard
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine
- Human papillomavirus vaccine support
Conclusion
India’s nationwide HPV vaccination drive represents a powerful shift toward preventive healthcare, one that could save tens of thousands of lives every year. With cervical cancer accounting for nearly 20% of the global burden in India, the potential impact is enormous.
Choosing a vaccine, families can help protect not only their children but also future generations. Staying informed, participating actively, and supporting evidence-based public health initiatives are key steps toward a healthier, cancer-free future for women in India.
If you are a parent or guardian of an eligible child, consider scheduling the HPV vaccination during this campaign. Prevention today can mean protection for a lifetime.
