India Launches Indigenous Td Vaccine to Strengthen Immunization Program
New Delhi: Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J.P. Nadda launched the domestically manufactured Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine at the Central Research Institute (CRI) in Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh on Saturday, February 20, 2026. This launch represents a significant step towards safeguarding public health and achieving self-sufficiency in vaccine production.
Expanding Protection Against Diphtheria and Tetanus
Widespread vaccination with the combined diphtheria-tetanus vaccine has significantly reduced the incidence of both diseases globally 1. However, immunity against diphtheria can wane over time, necessitating booster doses. In 2006, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended countries transition from tetanus (TT) vaccine to Td vaccine to address this 1. This recommendation was reinforced in subsequent WHO position papers and reviews by the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE).
The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) has also recommended the Td vaccine replace the TT vaccine in India’s immunization program for all age groups, including pregnant women, to broaden protection against diphtheria while maintaining progress in eliminating maternal and neonatal tetanus 2.
CRI’s Role and Vaccine Production
The Central Research Institute (CRI) is producing the Td vaccine and has successfully completed all necessary development studies, clinical trials and regulatory approvals, including marketing and manufacturing authorization 4. The vaccine is now integrated into the Universal Immunization Program (UIP).
CRI is set to supply 55 lakh (5.5 million) doses of the Td vaccine to the UIP by April 2026, with plans to scale up production in subsequent years to further strengthen the national immunization program 4.
India’s Vaccine Manufacturing Capabilities
Minister Nadda emphasized India’s position as a global leader in vaccine manufacturing, having achieved WHO Maturity Level 3, indicating a stable and well-functioning national regulatory authority 2. He highlighted India’s rapid response to the COVID-19 pandemic, developing two indigenous vaccines and administering 220 crore (2.2 billion) doses within nine months, while also supplying vaccines to over 100 nations 2.
Understanding Tetanus and Diphtheria
Tetanus is a serious illness characterized by painful muscle stiffness and spasms, potentially leading to life-threatening complications 2. Diphtheria is a potentially fatal infection that can cause breathing difficulties, heart failure, paralysis, and death 2.
The Td vaccine provides protection against both tetanus and diphtheria, combining purified diphtheria and tetanus toxoids with an adjuvant and a preservative 2.
CRI’s Legacy and Commitment
Established in 1905, the Central Research Institute (CRI) plays a vital role in vaccine production, aligned with the National Vaccine Policy 4. The institute is dedicated to producing and supplying vaccines and antisera to meet the needs of the UIP and other public health initiatives 4.
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