Gangtok, Feb 28: Chief Minister of Sikkim Prem Singh Tamang on Saturday said the nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign for girls aged 14 years was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

According to the Chief Minister, he joined the launch event through video conference and formally initiated the HPV vaccination drive in the state.

He stated that the programme is expected to benefit around 1.15 crore girls annually across all States and Union Territories. The vaccine will be provided free of cost at designated government health facilities.

Tamang also appealed to the public to spread awareness about the importance of HPV vaccination, encourage eligible girls to avail the service, and address misconceptions related to the vaccine.