Agartala, Feb 28, 2026: In a significant step toward preventing cervical cancer among women, a three-month Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign has been launched in Tripura, offering free vaccines to adolescent girls.
The nationwide campaign was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ajmer, Rajasthan. Simultaneously, the state-level launch took place at IGM Hospital in Agartala. Chief Minister Professor (Dr.) Manik Saha joined the programme via video conference. The vaccination drive will continue for three months starting from February 28, 2026.
Cervical cancer, a major health concern among women in India, is primarily caused by infection with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Medical experts emphasize that timely vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of developing this life-threatening disease.
According to the campaign guidelines, adolescent girls aged 14 years and above but below 15 years are eligible to receive the vaccine. The state aims to vaccinate approximately 17,500 girls during the campaign period.
The vaccine will be administered at all routine immunization centres across the state, including Agartala Government Medical College & GBP Hospital, IGM Hospital, Tripura Medical College (TMC), primary health centres, community health centres, sub-divisional hospitals, and district hospitals.
The initiative is being implemented under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. All vaccination data will be recorded and monitored through the U-WIN (Universal Immunization WIN) digital platform, ensuring efficient tracking of immunization coverage among children and adolescents.
Health experts have also highlighted that, along with vaccination, regular screening and increased awareness are equally crucial in preventing cervical cancer. The medical community remains hopeful that such initiatives will significantly reduce the incidence of cervical cancer in the country in the coming years.
Among others present at the programme were Rajya Sabha MP Rajib Bhattacharjee, Health Secretary Kiran Gitte, Director of Health Services Dr. Debasri Debbarma, Director of Family Welfare & Preventive Medicine Dr. Anjan Das, NHM Tripura Joint Mission Director Dr. Nupur Debbarma, Member Secretary of the State Health & Family Welfare Society Dr. Souvik Debbarma, and Chief Medical Officer of West District Dr. Shankar Chakraborty, along with other officials.
The information was shared by the Health Department.
