Jaipur, March 2 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi initiated a comprehensive nationwide campaign for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination aimed at 14-year-old girls from Ajmer this past weekend, representing a significant advancement in enhancing women's preventive healthcare and bolstering India’s battle against cervical cancer.

A group of schoolgirls who received the vaccine in the presence of the Prime Minister expressed that the experience was safe, comforting, and unforgettable.

Purvi Agarwal, one of the first recipients of the HPV vaccine, remarked that she felt “very secure” after getting vaccinated.

“We are aware that cervical cancer claims the lives of many women. This vaccine is crucial,” she stated, highlighting her prior knowledge about HPV and cervical cancer from newspaper articles and her awareness of the government’s complimentary vaccination initiative.

She emphasized that the vaccine, which typically costs around Rs 4,000, being provided at no cost is a significant relief for families.

Purvi also had the opportunity to converse with the Prime Minister.

“PM Modi inquired about various topics, including our academic progress. It felt so warm; I didn't think I was talking to the Prime Minister. This experience will forever remain etched in my memory,” she shared.

Another student, Chanchal Meghwanshi, reported feeling completely normal after her vaccination.

“I experienced no pain or concerns. This vaccine will safeguard young girls from cervical cancer in the future,” she asserted, committing to encourage girls aged 14–15 to get vaccinated.

She, too, interacted with PM Modi.

“He asked about my family, my studies, and even my examinations. It felt wonderful to converse with him. It didn’t feel like I was speaking to the Prime Minister, but to someone very approachable,” she recounted.

Both students voiced their optimism that this initiative will positively influence the health and future of girls nationwide.

The initiative includes a national campaign aimed at raising awareness and safeguarding girls from the threats of cervical cancer by administering HPV vaccinations before potential exposure to life-threatening diseases.

The vaccine is safe, effective, and offers long-lasting protection against the HPV strains that cause the majority of cervical cancer cases.

The HPV vaccination has received validation and endorsement from the World Health Organization (WHO) and India’s National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI).

Worldwide, 160 out of 194 countries have integrated HPV vaccination into their National Immunization Programs. 90 countries have adopted a single-dose schedule, including most Southeast Asian nations.

HPV vaccines are proven to be 93-100% effective in preventing cervical cancer caused by the HPV types covered by the vaccine.