Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a “nationwide” HPV vaccination campaign today, stating he will launch the initiative in Ajmer, Rajasthan at 11:30 AM. “We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the daughters of the country are healthy and prosperous,” Modi declared. “The objective of this initiative is the prevention of cervical cancer.”

The program targets free HPV vaccination for 14-year-old girls, aiming to prevent cervical cancer before it develops by addressing the virus at its root. Cervical cancer remains a significant health challenge for Indian women despite being largely preventable through early intervention.

Dr. Srinivas C H, MS Ortho, Fellowship in Orthopedic Oncology, CEO and Consultant Orthopedic Onco Surgeon at Prakriya Hospitals in Bangalore, described the campaign as transformative: “India’s nationwide HPV vaccination drive for adolescent girls is a transformative step in women’s health, because it prevents cervical cancer before it even begins to develop.” He emphasized that removing cost barriers and delivering vaccines at the recommended age ensures optimal protection.

Modi previously told Bill Gates in 2024: “I aim to encourage our scientists to conduct local research to make vaccines. My goal is to vaccinate all girls in our country at minimal cost, ensuring they are protected from cancer.” He also stated his commitment to investing significantly in cervical cancer research once his government is re-elected.

India’s leadership in global health has been marked by its role as the world’s largest producer of vaccines, supplying over 60 percent of all vaccines distributed by Gavi—the organization that has vaccinated more than one billion children in low-income countries. Indian companies have pioneered affordable treatments for diseases including HIV/AIDS and rotavirus, contributing to faster access to medicines in developing nations.