Aizawl: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched the nationwide rollout of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine for adolescent girls aged 14 years, offering it free of cost at government health facilities. The launch was held in Ajmer, Rajasthan, and streamed across the country.
In Mizoram, the state-level launch programme was organised by the Health & Family Welfare Department at the Civil Hospital Auditorium. Health Minister Pi Lalrinpuii formally launched the programme, while Chief Secretary Pu Khilli Ram Meena chaired the event.
Addressing the gathering, the Health Minister lauded the Prime Minister’s initiative to strengthen women’s healthcare in the country. She expressed concern that Mizoram continues to record the highest cancer incidence rate per lakh population among Indian states. Referring to inputs from doctors at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, she said cancer cases among Mizos are notably high, with tobacco use, dietary habits and lifestyle factors cited as key contributors.
She noted that breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in India, followed by cervical cancer. Stating that 99.7 per cent of cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV, she described the free rollout of the HPV vaccine as a significant preventive step. The minister urged all eligible 14-year-old girls to receive the vaccine and appreciated healthcare workers from the Directorate level to Sub-Centres for their dedication.
Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena, in his remarks, said that nearly one-fifth of the world’s cervical cancer burden is in India. He termed the free vaccination drive a crucial investment in the health of young girls and future mothers. He also pointed out that Mizoram records one of the highest incidences of cervical cancer in the country, while screening coverage among women remains low. The initiative, he said, would help save lives, strengthen families and contribute to the state’s long-term development.
During the programme, participants watched the Prime Minister’s national launch event online from Ajmer. This was followed by the state-level programme, where Dr Zoramruati Ralte, Joint Director (EPI), delivered a technical presentation on HPV and the vaccine. Dr Vanlalfela, Director of Health Services, delivered the vote of thanks.
Cervical cancer is a disease affecting women, with 99.7 per cent of cases linked to Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection. In 2024, India reported 78,499 new cervical cancer cases and 42,392 deaths.
Among the various HPV strains, 17 are classified as high-risk types. HPV 16 is considered the most dangerous, and together HPV 16 and 18 account for 77 per cent of cervical cancer cases worldwide. In India, these two strains are responsible for 88 per cent of cases. HPV spreads easily through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal and oral routes.
Globally, 160 countries have already introduced the HPV vaccine. In the South-East Asia Region, eight out of 10 countries have incorporated it into their immunisation programmes. In India, the HPV vaccine has been available in private healthcare facilities since 2008.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
Under the national rollout, the vaccine will be administered to girls aged 14 years (those who have completed 14 years but not yet turned 15). The Quadrivalent Gardasil vaccine will be given as a 0.5 ml intramuscular injection in the upper arm.
The vaccine will be available free of cost at government health facilities, including Health and Wellness Centres, Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), Sub-District Hospitals (SDHs) and District Hospitals (DHs). The initial intensive campaign will run for three months, after which the vaccine will continue to be administered alongside routine immunisation services at Sub-Centres.
Also Read | Mizoram Budget 2026–27 allocates Rs 40 lakh for anti-narcotics activities