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WHO/UNICEF 2024 Estimates show significant progress on Immunization in India | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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WHO/UNICEF 2024 Estimates show significant progress on Immunization in India

Posted 16 Jul 2025

2 min read

The data provides the world’s largest and most comprehensive dataset on immunization trends for vaccinations against 14 diseases.

Key Findings

  • Global: In 2024, 89% of infants globally received at least one dose of the diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTP) containing vaccine.
  • India: It reduced its number of zero-dose children by 43% in 2024 (from 1.6 million in 2023 to 0.9 million in 2024).
  • Zero-dose children are those who have not received a single vaccine.

Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) of India

  • Genesis: Initially launched in 1978 as the Expanded Programme on Immunization, it was rebranded as the UIP in 1985.
  • Coverage: Provides free immunization against 12 diseases:
  • Nationwide (9): Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Polio, Measles, Rubella, Childhood Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B and Meningitis & Pneumonia.
  • Region-specific (3): Rotavirus diarrhoea, Pneumococcal Pneumonia, and Japanese Encephalitis.
  • Under the National Rural Health Mission, the UIP has become a central component of India's public health efforts.
  • Under this, a child is considered fully immunized after receiving all vaccinations as per the national schedule within the first year of life.
  • Achievements: Polio-Free India (2014), Neonatal tetanus elimination (2015).
  • Key Initiatives: Intensified Mission Indradhanush 5.0 (IMI 5.0) campaign with special focus on improvement of Measles and Rubella vaccination coverageU-WIN Portal etc.
  • Tags :
  • Immunization
  • Universal Immunization Programme
  • Intensified Mission Indradhanush 5.0
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