In a major step towards strengthening preventive healthcare, the government will roll out the HPV vaccination campaign from February 28, 2026, following its official launch. The initiative aims to protect adolescent girls from cervical cancer through a structured and time-bound vaccination strategy.

 The campaign will primarily target girls aged 14 years — those who have completed their 14th birthday but are yet to turn 15. Notably, girls who are set to turn 15 within 90 days of the launch will also be covered during the intensive three-month drive, ensuring broader and timely protection.

Clear exclusion guidelines have also been outlined to ensure safety. Girls with moderate or severe illness will receive the vaccine only after recovery, while those with known allergies to previous vaccinations or yeast, as well as pregnant girls, will not be administered the vaccine. Additionally, girls who have already received HPV vaccines such as Gardasil, Gardasil-9, Cervarix, or Cervavac will have their vaccination records updated on the U-WIN portal.

The programme will use Gardasil-4, a quadrivalent vaccine that protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18. A single 0.5 ml dose will be administered intramuscularly in the left upper arm, with strict storage conditions maintained between +2°C and +8°C to ensure effectiveness.

Vaccination sessions will be conducted exclusively at government health facilities, including Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, Primary Health Centres, Community Health Centres, Sub-District Hospitals, District Hospitals, and Government Medical Colleges equipped with cold chain points, internet connectivity, and dedicated medical officers for AEFI management.

Sessions are generally planned between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM, though states and Union Territories may adjust timings based on local requirements and may also conduct sessions on weekends and public holidays.

To enhance safety and comfort, officials have advised that beneficiaries should not be vaccinated on an empty stomach, and arrangements for refreshments may be made where necessary. After vaccination, recipients will be observed for 30 minutes, with efforts to create a calm environment through engaging activities and controlled crowd management to reduce anxiety and stress-related responses.

With detailed operational planning, safety precautions, and targeted outreach, the upcoming HPV vaccination drive is expected to play a crucial role in advancing the fight against cervical cancer and safeguarding the health of young girls across the country.