Indigenous Vaccine Milestone
Indigenous Td Vaccine Boosts India Immunization Drive: Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda launched the indigenously developed Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine at Central Research Institute Kasauli in February 2026. The launch marks a major push toward self-reliance in healthcare manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
The new vaccine replaces the earlier Tetanus Toxoid (TT) vaccine in line with global scientific guidance. It enhances protection by covering both tetanus and diphtheria.
Static GK fact: The Central Research Institute at Kasauli was established in 1905 during British India and is one of the oldest vaccine research centres in Asia.
Supply Under Universal Immunization Programme
The government announced that 55 lakh doses of the Td vaccine will be supplied to the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) by April 2026. Production will be scaled up in subsequent years to meet national demand.
The UIP is one of the largest public health initiatives globally. It ensures structured vaccine delivery through an integrated national schedule.
Static GK Tip: The Universal Immunization Programme was launched in 1985 and is implemented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Why the Transition Matters
The shift from TT to Td follows recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO) made in 2006 and reaffirmed in the 2017 Tetanus Vaccine Position Paper. The recommendation was supported by the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts and adopted in India by the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI).
The Td vaccine strengthens immunity across age groups. It is particularly crucial for pregnant women, reducing neonatal tetanus and diphtheria risk.
India Nears Universal Vaccine Coverage
The Health Minister highlighted that India has achieved nearly 99% vaccine coverage, marking a significant public health achievement. The UIP currently protects against 12 diseases through 11 vaccines.
The programme covers approximately 5 crore beneficiaries annually, including 2.5 crore pregnant women and 2.5 crore children. It delivers 27 vaccine doses from pregnancy until 16 years of age.
Digital monitoring through the U-WIN platform enhances transparency and tracking of beneficiaries. The government also ensures five antenatal check-ups for pregnant women, including specialist consultations.
Static GK fact: India eliminated maternal and neonatal tetanus in 2015, as validated by global health authorities.
CRI Kasauli and Vaccine Self-Reliance
The Central Research Institute Kasauli became the first government institute to manufacture vaccines under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards. It completed developmental trials, secured licensing approvals, and obtained marketing authorization before commercial production.
Clearance from the Central Drugs Laboratory ensured regulatory compliance. This milestone strengthens India’s reputation as a global vaccine manufacturing hub.
India already supplies vaccines to multiple countries and plays a central role in global immunization efforts. The indigenous Td vaccine reinforces national health security while expanding manufacturing capacity.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Indigenous Td Vaccine Boosts India Immunization Drive:
| Topic | Detail |
| Vaccine Launched | Indigenous Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine |
| Launched By | Jagat Prakash Nadda |
| Launch Location | Central Research Institute, Kasauli |
| Doses Announced | 55 lakh doses by April 2026 |
| Programme | Universal Immunization Programme |
| Vaccine Transition | TT replaced by Td |
| Coverage Level | Nearly 99% immunization coverage |
| Digital Platform | U-WIN tracking system |
