The three-month campaign will be phased in to ensure that all identified beneficiaries receive the vaccine within the stipulated time frame. | Photo credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
The Karnataka government has launched a vaccination drive to prevent cervical cancer and increased efforts to strengthen adolescent girls’ health. As part of the initiative, the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine will be administered to girls over the age of 14.
The campaign was launched in accordance with the program of the Union Government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally launched the national initiative at an event held in Ajmer. In Karnataka, the program was watched through webcast at KC General Hospital.
1.15 million girls
According to officials, nearly 1.15 lakh girls above the age of 14 will be vaccinated at government health facilities in the state. The vaccine will be administered at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (Primary Health Centres), Community Health Centres, District and District Hospitals as well as Government Medical Colleges and Hospitals.
The three-month campaign will be phased in to ensure that all identified beneficiaries receive the vaccine within the stipulated time frame. The Ministry of Health has started creating awareness at the field level to encourage eligible girls and their families to avail the facility.
Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related illness in women. The HPV vaccine is given to prevent infection with human papillomavirus, the main cause of cervical cancer. Officials said the drive is expected to play a significant role in protecting the long-term health of girls and women in the state.
Senior officials said the campaign will be further expanded in the coming months to ensure wider coverage.
Director of Medical Education Sujatha Rathod, Mission Director, National Health Mission, Avinash Menon, Dean, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Director, Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology and other senior officials were present on the occasion.
Published – 28 Feb 2026 22:05 IST
