The Government of India has rolled out a three-month nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign to prevent cervical cancer, a disease that continues to affect thousands of women across the country each year.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the national programme in Ajmer, Rajasthan, on February 28. In Tripura, the state-level launch took place at IGM Hospital in Agartala. Chief Minister Manik Saha joined the event virtually via video conference.
Read More: Red Shield Division to Host Ex-Servicemen Rally in Agartala
Free Vaccination for Adolescent Girls
Under the initiative, adolescent girls aged 14 years and above but below 15 years will receive the HPV vaccine free of cost. Health officials estimate that nearly 17,500 girls in Tripura will benefit from the campaign during the three-month drive.
Authorities will administer vaccines at all routine immunization sessions. These include Agartala Government Medical College & GB Hospital, IGM Hospital, Tripura Medical College, primary health centres, community health centres, sub-divisional hospitals, and district hospitals across the state.
Preventing Cervical Cancer
HPV infection is the primary cause of cervical cancer. According to global health data, India records a significant number of cervical cancer cases every year, with many women losing their lives to the disease.
Medical experts stress that timely vaccination can drastically reduce the risk of HPV infection and subsequent cancer development. They also highlight the importance of regular screening and awareness campaigns to ensure long-term prevention.
Health professionals have expressed optimism that the nationwide drive will significantly lower cervical cancer rates over time. They view the campaign as a major step toward strengthening preventive healthcare for women.
Digital Monitoring Through U-WIN
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will monitor the campaign through the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s U-WIN (Universal Immunization WIN) digital platform. The portal records and tracks immunization data for children and adolescents across India.
Officials say U-WIN will ensure transparency, real-time monitoring, and accountability throughout the campaign. The system will also help maintain accurate vaccination records.
Strong Participation in Tripura
Several dignitaries attended the Tripura launch event. Among them were Rajya Sabha MP Rajib Bhattacharjee, Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, Director of Health Services Dr. Debasree Debbarma, Director of Family Welfare and Preventive Medicine Dr. Anjan Das, and other senior health officials.
The state health department has urged parents and guardians to encourage eligible girls to receive the vaccine. Officials believe community participation will play a crucial role in the campaign’s success.
With coordinated efforts at the national and state levels, the HPV vaccination drive aims to protect adolescent girls and significantly reduce the future burden of cervical cancer in India.