Sakeena Itoo Joins PM Modi for Historic Nationwide HPV Vaccination Launch to Combat Cervical Cancer

KULGAM, FEBRUARY 28 — Marking a monumental shift in preventive healthcare for women, Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, virtually participated in the nationwide launch of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination campaign on February 28, 2026.

The campaign, officially kicked off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Ajmer, Rajasthan, specifically targets 14-year-old girls to provide lifelong protection against cervical cancer. Speaking from Kulgam, Minister Sakeena emphasized that cervical cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity among women in India, and this immunization drive is a critical milestone in drastically reducing future incidence rates.

She reaffirmed the J&K Government’s commitment to women’s health, noting that the vaccine serves as a powerful shield that aligns with the broader vision of making high-quality, preventive healthcare both accessible and affordable at the grassroots level.

To ensure the success of this life-saving initiative across the Union Territory, the Minister has directed the Health Department to intensify Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities.

This strategic outreach aims to educate parents and young girls about the safety and efficacy of the HPV vaccine, encouraging informed participation to build a “cancer-free” future.

By integrating this vaccination into the routine healthcare framework, the administration seeks to strengthen the secondary healthcare system and reduce the long-term burden on tertiary care institutions.

Minister Sakeena concluded by stating that safeguarding the health of young girls today is an investment in the strength and progress of the nation tomorrow.