Maharashtra to Launch Free HPV Vaccination for Girls in 2026

The Maharashtra health department is set to initiate a statewide programme offering free Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccinations to girls aged between 9 and 14, starting from January 2026. This initiative follows the announcement made by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during the 2024 Budget presentation, which included provisions for free HPV vaccinations aimed at preventing cervical cancer.

Previously, Maharashtra conducted a pilot project that targeted students in government schools, providing a limited number of vaccinations. However, with this upcoming rollout, the initiative will extend to encompass all eligible girls across the state.

Dr. Sandeep Sangle, Joint Director of the State Family Welfare Department, confirmed that the vaccination programme would commence once the final directives from the central government are received. He stated, "The vaccines will be available free of charge at all public health facilities. We have established guidelines regarding consent, monitoring, and record-keeping. Additionally, awareness campaigns aimed at adult women regarding screening and early diagnosis will continue to be promoted."

The HPV vaccine is specifically recommended for girls who have not yet come into contact with the virus, which is primarily transmitted through sexual activity. Maharashtra will become one of the few Indian states to incorporate the HPV vaccine into its universal routine immunisation schedule. The state has already procured 950,000 doses of the vaccine and has completed training for health workers at the state, district, and block levels.

Cervical cancer ranks as the second most prevalent cancer among women in India, following breast cancer. Despite being largely preventable and treatable if identified at an early stage, cervical cancer claims over 77,000 lives annually in the country. With the inclusion of the HPV vaccination in the National Immunisation Programme, authorities aim to significantly decrease the incidence of this disease in the future.