Maharashtra Govt Rolls Out Massive HPV Vaccination Campaign for Girls To Prevent Cervical Cancer

In a landmark move for women's preventive healthcare, the Maharashtra government has officially introduced a massive vaccination drive against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Launched on March 8, 2026, the campaign honours International Women's Day and aims to protect young girls across the state.

Maharashtra Government HPV Campaign for Girls

Inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in Mumbai, the HPV vaccination campaign was launched to protect approximately 9.84 lakh girls from cervical cancer. Here are the details:

The campaign is a special three-month intensive drive, with the vaccination integrated into the routine immunisation programme.

The drive targets young girls who have completed 14 years but have not yet turned 15, as the immune response is highest in early adolescence, providing lasting protection. 

The vaccination drive is free and voluntary and requires parents’ consent.

The beneficiaries are mandated to register via the Central Government's U-WIN portal.

Once vaccinated, digital certificates will be provided to the beneficiaries in the U-WIN portal.

The central government also introduced 'PINK OPDs' for women's health services.

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What is Cervical Cancer?

According to the National Library of Medicine, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in Indian women, with over 1.23 lakh new cases and over 77,000 deaths annually. A deadly disease that develops in the cervix is caused by persistent infection of the HPV, a common sexually transmitted virus. While early stages have no symptoms, the advanced symptoms include unusual bleeding, heavy discharge, and severe pelvic pain.

Indian Government Focuses on HPV Vaccination for Girls

The Indian government is prioritising cervical cancer prevention at a large scale by distributing free HPV vaccines through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, community health centres, and district hospitals. Targeting nearly 1.15 crore girls aged 9 to 14, the government provides single-dose vaccination shots before transitioning to routine immunisation.

The government reaches girls in grades 5-10 through school and community campaigns, using the U-WIN portal to track and schedule doses digitally. Supported by the Union Budget and Gavi funding, the drive initiates public awareness to eliminate cervical cancer cases.

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