Bengaluru, Karnataka – The Karnataka state government commenced a three-month Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination drive today, February 28, 2026, targeting adolescent girls to prevent cervical cancer. The initiative aligns with a nationwide program formally launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ajmer, and was viewed via webcast at K.C. General Hospital in Karnataka.
The campaign aims to vaccinate approximately 1.15 crore girls aged 14 and above across the state, according to state officials. Vaccinations will be administered through a network of government health facilities, including Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (Primary Health Centres), Community Health Centres, sub-district and district hospitals, and government medical colleges and hospitals.
The phased rollout is designed to ensure all eligible beneficiaries receive the vaccine within the designated timeframe. The Health Department is actively engaged in awareness campaigns at the local level to encourage participation from girls and their families.
Cervical cancer remains a significant health concern for women in India. The HPV vaccine prevents infection from the Human Papillomavirus, a primary cause of the disease. Officials anticipate the vaccination drive will substantially contribute to the long-term health and well-being of girls and women throughout Karnataka.
Director of Medical Education Sujatha Rathod, Mission Director of the National Health Mission Avinash Menon, Dean of Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, the Director of Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology, and other senior officials were present during the launch event in Karnataka.
The central government is as well preparing to roll out a nationwide, single-dose HPV vaccine drive, according to recent reports. This broader initiative aims to extend protection against cervical cancer to adolescent girls across the country.
