Prime Minister Modi to Inaugurate National HPV Vaccination Drive from Ajmer on February 28
In a landmark public health initiative, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch a comprehensive nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign on February 28, 2026. The official inauguration ceremony will take place in the historic city of Ajmer, located in the state of Rajasthan, marking a significant step forward in India's efforts to combat cervical cancer.
Comprehensive Vaccination Program for Adolescent Girls
Under this ambitious government-led program, all 14-year-old girls across the entire country will receive a single dose of the Gardasil 4 vaccine completely free of charge. The vaccination will be administered through government health facilities, ensuring widespread accessibility and coverage. This initiative represents one of the largest public health vaccination drives specifically targeting adolescent girls in India's history.
The Gardasil 4 vaccine is a proven medical intervention that provides protection against four types of HPV viruses, including those most commonly associated with cervical cancer development. By targeting girls at the age of 14, the program aims to provide immunity before potential exposure to the virus, offering long-term protection against cervical cancer, which remains a significant health concern for women in India.
Strategic Implementation and National Impact
The vaccination campaign will be rolled out systematically across all states and union territories, with the launch from Ajmer serving as the symbolic beginning of this nationwide effort. Government health officials have been preparing for this campaign for several months, ensuring adequate vaccine supply, trained healthcare personnel, and proper cold chain maintenance for vaccine storage and transportation.
This public health initiative aligns with global best practices for cervical cancer prevention and demonstrates India's commitment to addressing women's health issues through preventive healthcare measures. The single-dose regimen simplifies implementation and increases the likelihood of high coverage rates, as it eliminates the need for multiple follow-up visits that can sometimes hinder vaccination completion rates.
Broader Public Health Implications
The nationwide HPV vaccination campaign represents a significant investment in preventive healthcare infrastructure and women's health specifically. By making the vaccine available free of charge through government facilities, the program addresses potential financial barriers that might prevent families from accessing this important preventive measure.
Public health experts have welcomed this initiative, noting that comprehensive HPV vaccination programs have demonstrated substantial success in reducing cervical cancer rates in countries where they have been implemented effectively. The February 28 launch date has been strategically chosen to allow for thorough preparation and coordination between central and state health authorities.
As the campaign begins from Ajmer, Rajasthan, it will gradually expand to cover the entire nation, with health officials monitoring implementation closely to ensure equitable access for all eligible girls regardless of their geographical location or socioeconomic background.
