Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 21 December 2025
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands achieved 99.9% vaccination coverage on the first day of National Immunisation Day for Polio held on 21 December 2025 across the Union Territory. A total of 20,647 children out of an estimated 20,666 in the 0–5 age group received oral polio drops, including those in Sri Vijaya Puram and Defence areas, health authorities said.
A network of 489 fixed booths was established throughout the Islands, with special arrangements at bus terminals, sea ports, the Veer Savarkar International Airport, and on inter-island vessels, ensuring children in transit were also covered.
District-wise performance indicated near-universal coverage:
- South Andaman: 14,016 of 14,081 children (99.5%)
- North & Middle Andaman: 4,620 of 4,570 children (101.09%)
- Nicobar: 2,011 of 2,015 children (99.8%)
With 99.9% coverage already achieved, health teams will carry out house-to-house visits on 22 and 23 December to immunise any remaining children. Officials also acknowledged strong participation from private medical practitioners, who contributed to the campaign’s success.
Meanwhile, the State-level inaugural ceremony for the National Immunization Day (Pulse Polio) was held at UHC Junglighat on 21 December 2025, where Health Secretary and Mission Director–UTHM, Ms. Richa, administered the first dose of oral polio vaccine (bOPV).
Addressing the gathering, Ms. Richa appealed to parents and guardians to ensure full participation.
“People must come forward and ensure that all children aged 0–5 years receive the oral polio vaccine by visiting their nearest booth,” she said.
Dr. H.M. Siddaraju, Director of Health Services, attended the programme as guest of honour, along with Dr. Avijit Roy, Deputy Director (Health) and State Immunisation Officer, and other senior DHS officials.
