Bhopal, Feb 28 (NationPress) In a significant step towards enhancing preventive health measures, the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Dr. Mohan Yadav, launched a comprehensive Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination initiative on Saturday. This campaign is focused on safeguarding adolescent girls from the risks of cervical cancer.

The initiative aims to reach approximately 800,000 girls aged between 14 and 15 across the state. The Central government has provided over 758,500 doses of the vaccine, which is typically priced around Rs 4,000 in the market, but will be offered free of charge at designated government health centers over the next three months.

During the virtual inauguration from New Delhi, Chief Minister Yadav emphasized that this initiative illustrates the state government’s dedication to women's health and empowerment. He acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role in launching the national campaign from Ajmer, Rajasthan, and assured that Madhya Pradesh is committed to its successful execution.

Highlighting the severity of cervical cancer as a health concern for women, he urged parents to ensure that their eligible daughters receive the vaccine and make the most of this free immunization opportunity.

Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla officially commenced the campaign at the Dr. Kailash Nath Katju Hospital in Bhopal. He pointed out that cervical cancer is the second most prevalent cancer among women, following breast cancer, with a prevalence rate of about 156 cases per 100,000 women.

Shukla mentioned that preventive measures such as the HPV vaccination are significantly more effective than treatment, reaffirming the government’s vision of eradicating cervical cancer in Madhya Pradesh. He called upon health workers, public representatives, and citizens to work together to ensure extensive coverage for this program.

This HPV vaccination drive is being rolled out alongside other health initiatives in the region. Shukla announced that a new initiative, “Mission Madhuhari,” will soon provide weekly clinics in district hospitals for managing Type 1 diabetes among children and young adults, which will include insulin testing and specialist consultations.

Additional initiatives like the Nirogi Kaya Abhiyan, Sickle Cell Eradication Mission, Healthy Women Empowered Family Campaign, and Healthy Liver Mission are also ongoing in the state.

Officials reported that the state has enhanced its primary healthcare framework through innovative hub-and-spoke models at primary health centers, expanded diagnostic services offering up to 85 different tests, introduced telemedicine for specialist consultations in rural areas, and proposed establishing medical colleges in each Lok Sabha constituency.

Chief Minister Yadav concluded by stating that continuous health awareness and timely check-ups are crucial for long-term public health improvements. Officials expressed optimism that the vaccination goals will be met within the designated period.