The three-month nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign was launched in Tripura on Saturday as part of the national initiative flagged off by Narendra Modi from Ajmer.
In Tripura, the state-level programme was formally inaugurated at IGM Hospital. Health officials said the campaign, which began on February 28, will continue for three months and aims to immunise around 17,500 adolescent girls across the state.
Rajib Bhattacharjee attended the launch event at IGM Hospital. Addressing the media, he thanked the Prime Minister for prioritising reforms in the health sector. He noted that the HPV vaccine, developed by the Indian Council of Medical Research, is a major step toward preventing cervical cancer and strengthening public health infrastructure.
Describing the initiative as part of the broader vision of Viksit Bharat, Bhattacharjee said consistent efforts are being made to improve healthcare delivery across the country. He added that the Union Budget reflects the Centre’s focus on expanding access to quality health services.
Under the campaign, the HPV vaccine is being administered free of cost to girls aged 14 years who have not yet turned 15. Health officials said the drive aims to curb the rising incidence of cervical cancer, which is primarily caused by persistent infection with the Human Papillomavirus.
Medical experts emphasised that timely vaccination significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer later in life. They also highlighted the importance of combining immunisation with regular screening and awareness programmes for effective prevention.
The vaccine will be available at routine immunisation sessions conducted at Agartala Government Medical College, GB Hospital, IGM Hospital, Tripura Medical College, as well as primary health centres, community health centres, and district hospitals. Vaccination data will be recorded on the Centre’s U-WIN digital platform to ensure real-time monitoring under the universal immunisation programme.
