Overview
- Union Health Minister J P Nadda unveiled the Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria vaccine at the Central Research Institute in Himachal Pradesh.
- The vaccine is developed and manufactured domestically by CRI, which completed development, licensing and Central Drugs Laboratory release to begin commercial supply.
- Introduction into the national programme follows WHO and NTAGI guidance to replace tetanus toxoid with Td to sustain diphtheria protection across age groups, including pregnant women.
- The Td vaccine protects against tetanus and diphtheria, targeting booster use for adolescents and adults as immunity can wane over time.
- Officials framed the rollout as strengthening national health security and Atmanirbhar Bharat, with production expected to scale up in the coming years.