JAMMU: Commissioner Secretary Health & Medical Education Department, M. Raju, today chaired a high level meeting of the State Task Force regarding rollout of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination Programme.

The meeting was convened to review the preparedness and finalize implementation strategy for the UT-level launch of the HPV Vaccination Programme, which is scheduled to be observed across the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir on 28th February, 2026, in consonance with the nationwide launch by the Prime Minister.

Director Family Welfare MCH & Immunization J&K presented a PowerPoint Presentation highlighting all operational aspects regarding launch of HPV Vaccine including microplanning, availability of HPV Vaccine across all 20 districts, training of vaccinators and supervisors, robust cold chain management through eVIN, logistics distribution, AEFI (Adverse Events Following Immunization) surveillance mechanisms and digital registration and certification through the U-WIN portal.

Target age group was also discussed viz. 14 year old girls (those who have celebrated their 14th birthday but have not yet celebrated their 15th birthday). Girls who will turn 15 years within 90 days of the launch will also be eligible for vaccination during these three months campaign period. It was informed in the meeting that a total of approximately 1,35,340 eligible beneficiaries have been identified for vaccination across the Union Territory.

Besides, roles and responsibilities of state, district and block-level stakeholders were discussed in detail. Special emphasis was laid on interdepartmental  coordination, especially with the Education Department and ICDS for beneficiary mapping and community mobilization.

Key messages for caregivers were also highlighted, including the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, the need to wait for 30 minutes post-vaccination for observation, awareness about minor self-limiting AEFIs and availability of vaccination certificates through U-WIN.

The Secretary reiterated the importance of supportive supervision, daily monitoring, timely reporting and functional AEFI committees at all levels. He also directed the Joint Director Information to spread awareness regarding the vaccination. He stressed the need for consistent communication to counter misinformation and ensure community confidence.

The Secretary directed all the stakeholders to ensure seamless implementation of the programme, robust monitoring and 100% coverage of eligible girls across the Union Territory. He also expressed satisfaction over the preparedness made by the concerned departments.

 The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to make the HPV Vaccination Campaign a success in J&K and contribute towards the long-term goal of eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem.

The meeting was attended by Commissioner, Municipal Corporation Jammu/Srinagar; Mission Director, National Health Mission, J&K; Director, SKIMS Soura; District Development Commissioners J&K and Director, Health Services Jammu/Kashmir; Director, Family Welfare, MCH & Immunization, J&K; Director, School Education Jammu/Kashmir; Joint Director, ICDS, J&K; Joint Director, Information Jammu, Deputy Director, AYUSH, J&K; Principals of Government Medical Colleges and Principal, SKIMS Medical College Bemina along with their Medical Superintendents; Chief Medical Officers; ; State Immunization Officer J&K; Surveillance Medical Officer WHO Jammu/Kashmir and State Programme Officer, UNDP, among other senior officers.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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