J&K Launches Cervical Cancer Vaccination Drive Under Dr. Ashutosh Gupta’s Guidance

In a historic step toward a healthier future for women in Jammu and Kashmir, a free vaccination drive to prevent cervical cancer was launched at the State Cancer Institute (SCI) of Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu on August 20, 2025. Under the technical guidance of Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, Principal of GMC Jammu, this first-of-its-kind initiative aims to make J&K cervical cancer-free by 2030. The drive was inaugurated by Health Minister Sakina Itoo, marking a significant milestone in women’s healthcare in the region.

Cervical cancer, caused mainly by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), is the second most common cancer among women in J&K. Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, a renowned oncologist, explained that this cancer is largely preventable through timely HPV vaccination. The drive targets girls aged 9 to 15, offering the vaccine free of cost at the Preventive Oncology OPD of the State Cancer Institute in Jammu. To reach more girls, outreach sessions are being held in schools, Anganwadi centers, and urban slums across the region.

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The vaccine protects against high-risk HPV types, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, which are responsible for nearly 77% of cervical cancer cases in India. By vaccinating young girls before they are exposed to the virus, J&K aims to drastically reduce cervical cancer cases in the coming decades.

Cervical cancer affects thousands of women in India, with J&K reporting 684 new cases in 2023 alone. The disease often strikes women in their productive years, causing immense physical, emotional, and economic hardship. Dr. Robina Mirza, Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology at GMC Jammu, highlighted that early vaccination can prevent the disease entirely, saving countless lives. The ValleyVibes.online team believes this drive is a game-changer for women’s health in J&K, aligning with the global goal of eliminating cervical cancer by 2030.

Associate Professor Dr. Bhavna Langer presented a detailed plan during the launch, emphasizing the importance of community outreach. By working with schools and Anganwadi centers, the initiative ensures that even girls in remote and underserved areas have access to the vaccine. Health Minister Sakina Itoo urged the departments of Social Welfare and School Education to collaborate with the Health Department to spread awareness about the vaccine’s safety and benefits.

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The launch of this vaccination drive is a testament to J&K’s commitment to improving healthcare. Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, who also spearheaded the region’s Cancer Policy earlier this year, has been instrumental in advancing cancer care at GMC Jammu. His leadership has brought cutting-edge facilities like PET scans and brachytherapy to the State Cancer Institute, making advanced treatment accessible to the people of J&K.