India Launches National HPV Vaccination Drive: What the Programme Covers

India started nationwide HPV vaccination for adolescent girls on 28 February 2026, joining over 140 countries that have already implemented the vaccine nationally. Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Indian women, with 78,000 new cases and 43,000 deaths recorded each year.

The WHO's three-part elimination framework requires vaccinating 90 per cent of girls by age 15, screening 70 per cent of women at age 30, and treating 90 per cent of those diagnosed. India's vaccination launch addresses the first pillar.

15-year clinical trials, including studies at the Tata Memorial Centre, confirm that a single HPV vaccine dose provides long-term protection in Indian populations. Single-dose delivery is far more practical for rural areas where cold-chain management for multiple doses is challenging.

Urban cervical cancer rates have been declining. Rural populations continue to present with advanced disease. Sustained community engagement and outreach will determine whether the vaccination programme achieves the coverage levels required for elimination.

The HPV vaccine is being integrated into the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP). Achieving the WHO's 90-70-90 targets also requires expanding cervical cancer screening infrastructure and treatment access across all districts.