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Introduction

India’s UIP, among the world’s largest, has recently been highlighted through Mission Indradhanush 5.0 and WHO’s recognition of eliminating maternal and neonatal tetanus. It has expanded vaccine coverage and reduced child mortality. These gains provide context for linking immunisation success with broader health preparedness.

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Achievements of India’s immunisation policy

• Expansion of vaccine basket: Six new vaccines (e.g., Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria, Rotavirus, Pneumococcal Conjugate) have been added in the past decade, extending protection across age groups.
  Eg: By 2024, UIP covered 12 diseases, including Japanese Encephalitis in endemic areas.
• Improved coverage through Mission Indradhanush: Mission Indradhanush (2014) and Intensified MI (2017) systematically targeted low-coverage populations.
  Eg: By 2023, 12 phases vaccinated 5.46 crore children and 1.32 crore pregnant women, raising full coverage significantly.
• Elimination of diseases: India achieved and sustained major milestones in eradication and control.
  Eg: Polio-free status since 2011, maternal and neonatal tetanus eliminated in 2015, and Yaws declared eliminated in 2016.
• Integration of digital platforms: Technology has modernised delivery, monitoring, and data management.
  Eg: U-WIN platform, modelled on Co-WIN, enables digital vaccination records and real-time tracking for children and pregnant women.
• Global recognition and vaccine diplomacy: India has emerged as both a national leader and a global partner in immunisation.
  Eg: Over 220 crore COVID-19 doses administered domestically by 2023; Vaccine Maitri supplied doses abroad; in 2024, India received the Measles and Rubella Champion Award.
  

How the One-Health approach can strengthen preparedness and response

• Integrated disease surveillance: Linking human, animal, and environmental health systems enables early detection of zoonotic outbreaks.
  Eg: Integrating vaccine-preventable disease surveillance with One-Health can pre-empt cross-species transmission.
• Stronger epidemic preparedness: Multi-sectoral surveillance helps in quicker identification and control of emerging pathogens.
  Eg: The COVID-19 experience highlighted the need for coordinated monitoring across sectors.
• Efficient resource utilisation: Coordinated cold chain, logistics, and lab infrastructure across animal and human health systems reduces duplication.
  Eg: Platforms like eVIN and National Cold Chain Management System can be scaled with One-Health integration.
• Public trust and community engagement: Cross-sector awareness builds resilience against misinformation and vaccine hesitancy.
  Eg: Campaigns like Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination (2025) show how coordinated public engagement can boost acceptance.
• Holistic policy framework: One-Health ensures health, agriculture, environment, and urban planning are aligned to prevent and respond to threats.
  Eg: Integration under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission strengthens systemic capacity.

Conclusion

A One-Health approach can tackle zoonotic and pandemic risks by integrating human, animal, and environmental health. Stronger surveillance and inter-sectoral coordination are essential. Community trust and digital tools can secure India’s immunisation gains while enhancing future resilience.

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