Gandhinagar/Ahmedabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the nationwide HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination campaign from Ajmer. Simultaneously, the Gujarat state-level HPV vaccination drive was launched at Sola Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, in the presence of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Health Minister Prafulbhai Panseria. The campaign aims to prevent cervical cancer and strengthen adolescent health in line with India’s public health priorities.
HPV Vaccination in Gujarat: Step Towards Atmanirbhar Bharat
Health Minister Prafulbhai Panseria highlighted Gujarat’s success in maintaining a polio-free status since 2007 and said the state’s vaccination system has now become more efficient and simplified. He noted that vaccines previously imported from abroad are now produced indigenously in India, enabling the country to assist other nations—a milestone for Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).
Read also: PM Modi Inaugurates Micron Technology’s $3 Billion Semiconductor ATMP Facility in Gujarat
Ayushman Yojana Coverage Increased to ₹10 Lakh
Minister Panseria reaffirmed the government’s commitment that no person should die due to lack of treatment or funds. Under this framework, the Ayushman Card treatment limit has been increased from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh, expanding access to quality healthcare. Parents and guardians were urged to avoid misinformation and trust that the HPV vaccine is safe, scientifically tested, and administered under medical supervision.
Free HPV Vaccine for 5.5 Lakh Adolescent Girls
Gujarat government currently spends over ₹240 crore annually on child vaccination programs. With the inclusion of HPV vaccination, a budget of ₹150 crore has been allocated to provide completely free vaccination. Each dose of HPV vaccine costs around ₹3,000 in the market, but the government ensures no financial barrier for families.
The campaign targets approximately 5.50 lakh girls aged 14–15 years, aiming to prevent cervical cancer, the second most common cancer among Indian women, primarily caused by HPV-16 and HPV-18 strains. A quadrivalent HPV vaccine will be administered to ensure maximum protection.
Robust Infrastructure: 2,297 Vaccination Teams and Cold Chain Points
To ensure smooth execution, 2,297 trained vaccination teams and an equal number of cold chain points have been activated. Vaccines are stored at +2 to +8°C to maintain quality. Monitoring and tracking of vaccination progress will be conducted in real-time via TeCHO+ and SAFE-VAC portals.
Parental Awareness: ‘Save Your Daughter from Cervical Cancer’
The government has urged parents to vaccinate their 14-year-old daughters under the campaign, sending the message: “Save your daughter from cervical cancer, get the HPV vaccine on time”. The initiative focuses on preventive care and aims to secure a cancer-free future for girls across Gujarat.
Dignitaries and Officials Present
The launch event at Sola Civil Hospital saw the participation of Ahmedabad Mayor Pratibhaben Jain, Health Department Additional Chief Secretary Rajiv Topno, Chief Minister’s Additional Principal Secretary Dr. Vikrant Pandey, Health Commissioner Dr. Ratankwar Gadhvicharan, Municipal Standing Committee Chair Devangbhai Dani, and several leaders and officials from the ruling party and the hospital. Many 14-year-old girls, eligible for vaccination, were also present at the event.
Focus on Adolescent Health and Cancer Prevention
The HPV vaccination campaign reflects India’s commitment to adolescent health, cancer prevention, and inclusive public health initiatives. By providing free, scientifically-backed vaccines to adolescent girls, the government aims to reduce cervical cancer incidence, promote awareness among parents, and strengthen India’s preventive healthcare infrastructure.
