PM Modi Launches Nationwide HPV Vaccination Drive to Combat Cervical Cancer

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a nationwide vaccination campaign against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) on February 28, 2026, in Ajmer, Rajasthan. This initiative aims to protect adolescent girls from cervical cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in India. Simultaneously, the campaign was initiated in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands at the District Hospital, Garacharma.

Understanding the HPV Vaccine and Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is often caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of HPV. The HPV vaccine, specifically the quadrivalent ‘Gardasil 4’ vaccine being used in this campaign, provides protection against HPV types 16 and 18, which are responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases, as well as types 6 and 11, which cause genital warts [The Hindu].

Campaign Details and Eligibility

The nationwide campaign targets girls aged 14. According to the Union Health Ministry, a single dose of the ‘Gardasil 4’ vaccine will be administered at government health facilities, including Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (Primary Health Centres), Community Health Centres, sub-district and district hospitals, and government medical colleges and hospitals [The Hindu]. In the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, all girls who have completed 14 years of age (those who have celebrated their 14th birthday but have not yet turned 15) are eligible for the vaccine.

Government Commitment and Future Impact

Prime Minister Modi emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering women (“Nari Shakti”) through this initiative [PM India]. The launch of this vaccination campaign represents a significant step towards protecting the health and future of adolescent girls across India and in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

Statements from Officials

Dr. Sachin Shinde, Commissioner-cum-Secretary in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, highlighted the importance of HPV vaccination and early screening in preventing cervical cancer, emphasizing the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness. Ms. Vandana Rao, Secretary (Health) and Managing Director, UTHM, also underscored the vaccine’s role in cervical cancer prevention [YouTube].