Sikkim Launches Free Cervical Cancer Vaccination Program for Girls Under 14 Years Starting April 2026

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang announced on Friday that all girls under 14 years of age in the state will receive free cervical cancer vaccinations starting April 2026.

During his address at the platinum jubilee celebration of Buriakhop School in Soreng district, Tamang also revealed that women aged 30 to 65 years would be provided with complimentary cervical cancer test kits beginning the same month, facilitating early detection and treatment of the disease.

"When preventive measures exist worldwide for such diseases, we must implement these programs to benefit those who can be protected from this dreaded ailment," Tamang stated.

The Chief Minister explained that children below 14 were selected as the target group because vaccination is most effective during this age range.

"By 2026, these vaccinations will be available to children in all state hospitals. This is a crucial initiative by the state government, and we encourage everyone to participate in this mission," he added.

The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of preventive healthcare measures in combating cervical cancer, highlighting the state government's commitment to public health initiatives.