Chandigarh (Balwinder Singh): Haryana Health Minister Aarti Singh Rao on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, called upon citizens to ensure that teenage girls receive the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to protect them from cervical cancer. Speaking during a public grievance redressing session in Chandigarh, the Minister highlighted that the vaccine is being provided free of cost by the state government. The campaign specifically targets approximately 300,000 girls across Haryana, primarily in the 14–15-year age group, as part of a broader initiative to safeguard the health and future of daughters in the state.
The HPV vaccination campaign was officially launched by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on February 28, 2026. Minister Rao explained that the vaccine provides vital protection against HPV types 16 and 18, which are majorly responsible for cervical cancer, as well as types 6 and 11. Cervical cancer, which originates in the lower part of the uterus, is largely caused by prolonged infection with the Human Papillomavirus. Factors such as smoking, early marriage, multiple pregnancies, and a weakened immune system significantly increase the risk of developing the disease.
The Health Minister further noted that strict protocols have been issued to medical and para-medical staff to ensure the safety of the beneficiaries. It is mandatory for staff to verify that the girl is not on an empty stomach at the time of vaccination. Additionally, parents or guardians must provide written consent or OTP-based digital consent before the injection is administered. The state government remains committed to reducing mortality rates associated with cervical cancer through increased awareness, timely screenings, and robust treatment facilities, with the ultimate goal of eradicating the disease through early prevention.
