As India joins the global observance of World Immunization Day, the nation reflects on its journey toward universal vaccine coverage and its commitment to public health equity. Celebrated annually on November 10, World Immunization Day underscores the importance of vaccines in preventing diseases like measles, polio, tuberculosis, and COVID-19. India’s immunization efforts, particularly through initiatives like the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) and Mission Indradhanush, have paved the way for impressive strides in reducing disease prevalence and mortality rates.
A Commitment to Public Health: The Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)
The UIP, one of India’s most comprehensive public health initiatives, provides free vaccines to millions of newborns and pregnant women annually. Originally launched in 1978, the program has since expanded to cover rural areas and vulnerable communities, reaching over 2.67 crore newborns and 2.9 crore pregnant women each year. Due to sustained efforts, India’s Full Immunization Coverage has reached 93.23% as of FY 2023-24, significantly reducing under-5 mortality rates.
The program offers free immunization against 12 diseases, with nine vaccines available nationwide, and others, such as those for Japanese Encephalitis and Pneumococcal Pneumonia, targeted regionally. India’s polio elimination in 2014 and maternal and neonatal tetanus elimination in 2015 are notable milestones achieved under the UIP, symbolizing India’s proactive approach in disease prevention.
Bridging Gaps with Mission Indradhanush
Launched in 2014, Mission Indradhanush (MI) has intensified efforts to boost immunization rates in hard-to-reach areas and communities with low vaccination uptake. Aimed at achieving 90% full immunization coverage, MI has completed twelve phases, reaching 554 districts and thousands of villages across India. The mission’s impact is substantial, with immunization coverage increasing by 6.7% in its first year alone.
A Digital Leap: The U-WIN Platform
To further strengthen immunization tracking, India introduced the U-WIN Portal, a fully digitized system to manage vaccination records for children and pregnant women. Accessible in 11 regional languages, the platform has registered over 6.46 crore beneficiaries and facilitated 23.06 crore vaccine doses. The U-WIN platform streamlines vaccine scheduling and tracking, ensuring timely doses and sending SMS alerts to remind families of upcoming vaccinations. By generating QR-based eVaccination Certificates and integrating with the Ayushman Bharat Health ID system, U-WIN simplifies digital health management and enhances accessibility.
COVID-19 Vaccination Success and Global Contributions
India’s COVID-19 vaccination drive, launched in January 2021, reached 220 crore doses by January 2023, covering 97% of eligible citizens with at least one dose. The program exemplified India’s capacity for large-scale immunization, deploying 2.6 lakh vaccinators and leveraging digital infrastructure for tracking and administration. India also contributed to global health by sharing vaccines with other nations through the Vaccine Maitri initiative.
Eliminating Deadly Diseases: Milestones and Recognition
India has achieved significant public health milestones, including becoming polio-free in 2014, eliminating maternal and neonatal tetanus in 2015, and being recognized as yaws-free by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2016. These successes, accomplished ahead of global targets, reflect India’s dedication to public health and disease eradication.
A Path Forward: A Healthier, More Resilient India
On World Immunization Day, India reaffirms its commitment to universal immunization, health equity, and the protection of every individual from vaccine-preventable diseases. Through continued efforts, the country aims to extend its reach to underserved and remote populations, ensuring no child is left behind. As India continues to strengthen its health infrastructure, its achievements serve as a global example of how comprehensive planning, digital innovation, and community engagement can lead to a healthier, more resilient nation.
