Nadda described the initiative as a ‘game-changer’ for public health, spotlighting CRI’s breakthrough in domestic production. He commended the institute’s scientists for delivering a vaccine that aligns with national self-reliance goals, boosting immunization rates to 99 percent—a feat celebrated worldwide.

Under the Universal Immunization Programme, CRI pledges 55 lakh doses by April 2026, with plans to scale up output steadily. This commitment reflects coordinated state-level efforts inspired by PM Modi’s vision for self-sufficient health infrastructure.

Reflecting on India’s pharmaceutical legacy, Nadda noted its status as the global pharmacy and third-place WHO ranking in vaccine regulation. He highlighted the stark contrast between past vaccine timelines—30 years for TB drugs, decades for tetanus—and the COVID-19 era’s speed: two vaccines in nine months, over 2.2 billion doses delivered digitally.

The TD vaccine’s introduction fortifies defenses against preventable diseases, particularly for adults. As India accelerates production, it positions itself as a beacon of innovation, ensuring equitable access to life-saving vaccines and inspiring emerging vaccine producers globally.

Describing it as a ‘milestone for public health,’ Nadda lauded the CRI scientists and linked the innovation to national self-reliance initiatives. The vaccine’s introduction comes at a time when India boasts near-universal 99% immunization coverage, earning international acclaim for its health sector strides.

Looking ahead, CRI commits to delivering 55 lakh doses under the national immunization drive by April 2026, scaling up output steadily. Nadda spotlighted PM Modi’s leadership, noting how states are aligning to fulfill self-sufficiency targets in health and pharma.

India’s global reputation as a pharmaceutical powerhouse was reiterated, complete with its No. 3 WHO regulatory ranking. The minister drew sharp contrasts: while tetanus vaccines took decades globally and Japanese Encephalitis efforts spanned a century, India mastered two COVID vaccines in mere months, distributing 220 crore+ doses digitally—a testament to digital health transformation.

As production gears up, this vaccine promises enhanced protection against tetanus and diphtheria for adults, fortifying India’s public health armor and inspiring emerging vaccine producers worldwide.