Source: TH
Why in News?
Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda launched an indigenously manufactured Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine, marking a major step in strengthening India’s public health system and vaccine self-reliance.
Key Highlights:
- The vaccine is produced by the Central Research Institute (CRI), Kasauli.
- It will be supplied under India’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP).
- 55 lakh doses to be supplied by April 2026.
- Production will increase in the coming years.
About Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)
- One of the largest immunisation programmes in the world.
- Provides 11 vaccines protecting against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Implemented by the Government of India to reduce child and maternal mortality.
About Central Research Institute (CRI), Kasauli
- Government vaccine manufacturing institute.
- First government facility producing vaccines under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards.
- Plays a key role in public sector vaccine production.
