Recent Vaccine Launch
Universal Immunization Programme Strengthening Public Health Shield: The Union Health Minister recently launched the indigenously manufactured Tetanus & Adult Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). This move strengthens India’s commitment to affordable and self-reliant vaccine production.
The Td vaccine replaces the earlier Tetanus Toxoid (TT) vaccine in the immunization schedule. It provides protection against both tetanus and diphtheria, especially among adolescents and pregnant women.
Static GK fact: Diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, while Tetanus is caused by Clostridium tetani.
Evolution of UIP
India’s immunization drive began in 1978 as the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI). In 1985, it was expanded and renamed as the Universal Immunization Programme to ensure wider coverage.
UIP is one of the largest public health initiatives globally. It targets millions of pregnant women and infants annually.
Static GK Tip: UIP operates under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
Disease Coverage Under UIP
UIP provides free vaccination against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases. Out of these, 11 diseases are covered nationwide.
These include Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Polio, Measles, Rubella, Severe Childhood Tuberculosis, Rotavirus Diarrhea, Hepatitis B, Haemophilus Influenzae type B (Hib), and Pneumococcal Pneumonia.
One disease, Japanese Encephalitis, is covered only in endemic districts. This region-specific approach ensures targeted disease control.
Static GK fact: BCG vaccine is administered to protect against severe forms of childhood tuberculosis.
Major Achievements
India was declared Polio-Free in 2014, a landmark public health achievement. The country also achieved elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus in 2015.
These milestones reflect sustained immunization coverage and strong surveillance systems. India’s polio-free certification was granted by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Static GK Tip: WHO Headquarters is located in Geneva, Switzerland.
Key Initiatives Strengthening UIP
The government launched Intensified Mission Indradhanush 5.0 (IMI 5.0) to improve immunization coverage in low-performing districts. Special emphasis is given to increasing Measles and Rubella vaccination rates.
The U-WIN Portal has been introduced as a digital platform to track vaccination status. It ensures real-time data monitoring and reduces duplication.
Digital integration improves transparency, accountability, and last-mile delivery of vaccines. This aligns with India’s broader Digital Health Mission goals.
Way Forward
The introduction of the indigenously developed Td Vaccine under UIP highlights India’s progress in vaccine manufacturing. It also supports the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in the health sector.
Sustained awareness campaigns, cold-chain infrastructure, and digital monitoring remain critical to achieving universal immunization coverage.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Universal Immunization Programme Strengthening Public Health Shield:
| Topic | Detail |
| Programme Name | Universal Immunization Programme |
| Launched As | Expanded Programme on Immunization in 1978 |
| Rebranded | 1985 |
| Total Diseases Covered | 12 |
| Nationwide Coverage | 11 diseases |
| Region-Specific Disease | Japanese Encephalitis |
| Recent Addition | Tetanus & Adult Diphtheria Vaccine |
| Major Achievement 1 | Polio-Free India in 2014 |
| Major Achievement 2 | Neonatal Tetanus Elimination in 2015 |
| Digital Initiative | U-WIN Portal |
