The Government of India launched a nationwide free HPV vaccination programme on 28 February 2026. It targets around 1.2 crore girls aged 14 years across all States and Union Territories. The programme aims to prevent cervical cancer by immunizing adolescent girls before exposure to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). It is implemented through a coordinated effort of health ministries and state governments as part of preventive healthcare. This initiative strengthens India's public health system and aligns with global goals to eliminate cervical cancer.
The Government of India launched a nationwide HPV vaccination programme on 28 February 2026. It targets about 1.2 crore girls aged 14 years across all States and Union Territories. The aim is to prevent cervical cancer by protecting girls before exposure to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV is a common virus transmitted through contact. Certain high-risk types cause cervical cancer. Vaccination at an early age provides strong immunity.
This initiative is important because cervical cancer is one of the leading cancers among women in India. Early vaccination reduces long-term disease burden.
Globally, the World Health Organization aims to eliminate cervical cancer through vaccination, screening, and treatment. India’s programme aligns with this strategy.
India has earlier implemented large-scale immunization programmes like Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). This HPV initiative expands preventive healthcare.
1.HPV vaccination is primarily used to prevent which disease?
A) Malaria
B) Cervical cancer
C) Tuberculosis
D) Diabetes
Answer: B
2.Target age group for HPV vaccination programme in India is:
A) 5 years
B) 10 years
C) 14 years
D) 18 years
Answer: C
3.HPV stands for:
A) Human Pulmonary Virus
B) Human Papillomavirus
C) Human Parasitic Virus
D) Human Pathogenic Variant
Answer: B
4.Which organisation leads global cervical cancer elimination strategy?
A) IMF
B) WHO
C) World Bank
D) UNICEF
Answer: B
5.HPV vaccination is an example of:
A) Curative healthcare
B) Preventive healthcare
C) Emergency care
D) Surgical care
Answer: B
1. Vaccines are used for which purpose?
Answer: Disease prevention
2. Cervical cancer is mainly caused by which virus?
Answer: Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Students often confuse HPV with HIV. HPV causes cervical cancer, while HIV affects immunity.
Focus on vaccine purpose, target group, and disease prevention concept.