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In a powerful public health initiative, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel launched a large-scale HPV vaccination drive on Wednesday at Panchsheel Balak Inter College in Noida’s Sector 91.
The campaign, aimed at preventing cervical cancer, focused on vaccinating girls between 9 and 15 years of age with the Gardasil vaccine.
The program was conducted under the joint collaboration of the Akanksha Committee, Gautam Buddh Nagar, Rotary Club of Delhi Okhla City, Felix Hospital, Khubsoorat D, district administration, and police authorities.
Over 500 schoolgirls from various government institutions received the vaccine free of cost.
A Call To Action By The Governor
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Governor Anandiben Patel shared a personal anecdote about learning of the HPV vaccine two years ago when it cost ₹2,500 per dose.
“Thanks to government efforts, the cost has now reduced to ₹1,500,” she said, encouraging corporate entities to allocate part of their CSR budgets toward vaccinating young girls.
She lauded similar initiatives in Kanpur, Gorakhpur, and Noida, and urged citizens to adopt and vaccinate girls, calling it an act of great virtue.
“You may not visit a temple daily, but keeping children healthy is true devotion- because children are our living gods,” she remarked.
Cervical Cancer: A Growing Concern
Underscoring the medical significance of the campaign, Dr DK Gupta, Chairman of Felix Hospital, highlighted the gravity of cervical cancer, which claims the lives of nearly 70,000 women annually in India.
He emphasized the preventive power of the HPV vaccine, calling it a ‘powerful shield’ against the disease.
He also explained the dosage protocol – a two-dose regimen for girls under 15 and a three-dose schedule for those above.
Empowering Health Through Awareness
Akanksha Committee President Ankita Raj emphasized the importance of timely vaccination, noting it as a collective responsibility.
Building on this sentiment, she expressed gratitude to Dr Ajay Rana for encouraging her to vaccinate her own 8-year-old daughter.
She also made an emotional appeal to end gender-based discrimination and promote equal health rights.
The event not only vaccinated 500 girls but also ignited a broader awareness campaign.
Student Khushi, who hosted the event and received the vaccine herself, confidently shared her experience, assuring others of its safety.
The program was attended by prominent figures, including MP Dr Mahesh Sharma, Noida MLA Pankaj Singh, Jewar MLA Dhirendra Singh, Police Commissioner Laxmi Singh, and DM Manish Kumar Verma.
Representatives from IMA, entrepreneurs, and educators also showed strong support, emphasizing the need to take this health message to every household.
The drive marks a crucial step toward eradicating cervical cancer and sets an example for nationwide efforts in adolescent health and preventive care.
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