Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP)
The Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) is one of the largest public health programmes in the world, covering approximately 2.67 crore newborns and 2.9 crore pregnant women annually across India. Launched in 1985 as an expansion of the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) introduced in 1978, it provides free vaccines against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases. The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) is the apex technical body that recommends inclusion of vaccines into the UIP. NTAGI had recommended HPV vaccine integration into UIP with a one-time catch-up for girls aged 9–14 years, followed by routine introduction at age 9.
- UIP currently covers 12 diseases: tuberculosis, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, hepatitis B, pneumonia, meningitis (Hib), rotavirus, measles, rubella, and Japanese encephalitis (in endemic areas)
- Mission Indradhanush (2014) and Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) were launched to increase full immunisation coverage, targeting children and pregnant women missed by routine immunisation
- India's full immunisation coverage increased from approximately 65% (2015-16 NFHS-4) to 76.4% (2019-21 NFHS-5)
● Tracked since February 17, 2026 · last seen April 11, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes