India is set to launch a free nationwide HPV vaccination programme targeting adolescent girls to prevent cervical cancer, a major public health concern in the country. Using the quadrivalent vaccine that protects against high-risk HPV types responsible for most cervical cancer cases, the initiative aims to provide early protection before exposure to the virus. Implemented through government health facilities with support from global partners, the programme seeks to ensure equitable access across all States and Union Territories. Along with regular screening and awareness, the vaccination drive represents a crucial step towards reducing cervical cancer incidence and advancing women’s health in India.
Click to View MoreIndia faces the world’s highest burden of snakebite deaths, largely due to delayed treatment and weak rural health linkages. The ICMR-led Zero Snakebite Death Initiative seeks to address this gap by integrating community-based prevention, rapid response, and evidence-driven health system strengthening, drawing on successful local models such as Assam’s Demow Model. By shifting the focus from hospital-centric care to early intervention and community empowerment, the initiative offers a realistic pathway to significantly reduce preventable snakebite mortality in India.
Click to View MoreUniversal Health Coverage (UHC) aims to ensure equitable, affordable healthcare for all citizens. Despite progress, challenges include low public spending, skilled personnel shortages, out-of-pocket expenses. A path forward involves increasing public investment, strengthening primary care, leveraging technology like telemedicine and digital health records (ABDM), to guarantee quality and accessible services for all.
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