The Kerala government is set to roll out a statewide HPV vaccination drive targeting Plus One and Plus Two students, marking a significant step toward the elimination of cervical cancer in the state.

The initiative, led by the Department of Health and Family Welfare, aims to vaccinate adolescent girls against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) — the primary cause of cervical cancer. The program will be implemented through government and aided higher secondary schools, with coordination between school health teams and local health authorities.

Officials stated that the campaign will ensure free HPV vaccination for eligible students, with provisions for awareness programs for parents and teachers to enhance participation and dispel myths surrounding the vaccine.

Health Minister Veena George emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “Early vaccination is one of the most effective strategies to prevent cervical cancer. Kerala’s HPV vaccination drive represents a crucial investment in the health of our young generation.”

Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in India, despite being largely preventable through timely vaccination and regular screening. The move by Kerala aligns with the Union Health Ministry’s national goal to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040.

The state government also plans to extend the vaccination campaign to out-of-school adolescents in subsequent phases, ensuring comprehensive coverage and equitable access across districts.