Sun Dec 14 05:27:55 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
A Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination camp was held in Visakhapatnam on December 13, 2025, targeting girls aged 9-14, particularly children of police personnel and home guards. The initiative was a joint effort by Natco Trust, Lions Club of Vizag, and the NGO Chaitanya Sravanthi. Police Commissioner Shanka Bratha Bagchi advocated for the HPV vaccine to be included in the national immunization program. Dr. Shirin Rahaman, President of Chaitanya Sravanthi, highlighted the safety of the vaccine and the importance of extending the vaccination program to rural areas, appealing for government support.
News Article:
HPV Vaccination Camp Held in Visakhapatnam, Push for National Immunization Program
Visakhapatnam, December 14, 2025 – A free HPV vaccination camp was held in Visakhapatnam on Saturday, December 13th, targeting young girls to protect them against cervical cancer. The initiative, spearheaded by Chaitanya Sravanthi in collaboration with Natco Trust and Lions Club of Vizag, focused on vaccinating girls aged 9 to 14, with a particular emphasis on the daughters of police personnel and home guards.
Police Commissioner Shanka Bratha Bagchi, who inaugurated the camp held at the Police Conference Hall, expressed his strong support for including the HPV vaccine in the Central government’s national immunization program.
“This vaccine has the potential to significantly reduce the incidence of cervical cancer in our country,” Commissioner Bagchi stated. “We must make it accessible to all, especially those in vulnerable communities.”
Dr. Shirin Rahaman, president of Chaitanya Sravanthi, emphasized the safety and effectiveness of the HPV vaccine and stressed the urgent need to extend the vaccination program to rural areas. She appealed for cooperation from both the Central and State governments to make this a reality. “Vaccinating girls in rural areas is crucial, and it requires a concerted effort and significant financial resources,” Dr. Rahaman explained. “The vaccine requires two doses given six months apart.”
Dr. Sarojini, a retired District Medical and Health Officer, and Lions Cancer Hospital Managing Trustee Umamaheswara Rao also spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of preventative measures against cervical cancer.
The Visakhapatnam police department is planning a rally on Beach Road to further raise awareness about cervical cancer and the importance of HPV vaccination. The Police Commissioner also encouraged NGOs to conduct camps for diseases such as hepatitis, pneumonia, and typhoid as police personnel were exposed to adverse weather conditions.
First Piper 