National Immunization Programme – Mission Indradhanush Programme: Newer Approaches and Interventions

Vaccines are globally accepted as instrumental in drastically bringing down vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs) related mortality and morbidity. Despite global relentless efforts, about 19.3 million children still go missing for full immunization and are at risk for VPDs. Government of India has tried to rejuvenate its four decades old Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) by recently launching Mission Indradhanush in 2014, followed by Intensified Mission Indradhanush in 2017 to boost up immunization coverage. UIP have also brought in newer vaccines, changed dose schedules, open vial policy and a robust surveillance system. Even then, country’s average immunization coverage is much below par. Thus, there is a pressing need for transforming immunization program from simple vaccine delivery platform to a comprehensive disease control programme. Country should introduce newer vaccines through evidence-based policies and increase access to immunization services through system strengthening.