PM launches HPV vaccination drive for 14-yr-old girls, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• PM Narendra Modi launched a nationwide HPV vaccination campaign for 14-year-old girls in Ajmer, Rajasthan.
• The campaign will administer a single-dose 'Gardasil 4' vaccine, protecting against HPV types 16, 18, 6, and 11.
• PM also inaugurated development projects worth Rs 16,680 crore and distributed appointment letters to 21,800 youths.

Detailed Insights:

• The HPV vaccine aims to prevent cervical cancer, caused by HPV types 16 and 18, and other diseases caused by types 6 and 11.
• The government provides Rs 5,000 direct benefit transfer to pregnant mothers for nutritional support.
• PM criticized the Congress party, referring to it as "MMC," and accused them of tarnishing India's image.
• PM highlighted the government's commitment to women's empowerment through various schemes and initiatives.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): A common viral infection that can cause warts, and certain types can lead to cancer.
• Cervical Cancer: A type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, often caused by HPV.
• Quadrivalent Vaccine: A vaccine that protects against four different strains of a virus.