Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda on Thursday launched an indigenous Tetanus and Diphtheria (TD) vaccine at the Central Research Institute in Kasauli, located in Himachal Pradesh’s Solan district.
Speaking at the event, the minister praised the institute for its long-standing contribution to India’s vaccine research and development. He said the Central Research Institute has played a major role in creating indigenous vaccines and strengthening the country’s public health system.
Nadda highlighted that India has made significant progress in healthcare and the pharmaceutical sector over the years. He noted that institutions like the Central Research Institute have been key drivers behind these achievements. According to him, the newly launched TD vaccine marks another important step toward strengthening India’s self-reliance in the health sector.
The minister said the indigenous vaccine aligns with Narendra Modi’s vision of building an “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India). He emphasised that producing vaccines within the country reduces dependence on imports and ensures timely availability for citizens.
Nadda also pointed out that India is widely recognised as the “Pharmacy of the World” because of its strong pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity. He added that the country’s Universal Immunization Programme is the largest immunisation programme globally, covering millions of children and pregnant women every year.
To further strengthen this programme, the Central Research Institute in Kasauli will supply around 5.5 million doses of the TD vaccine by April 2026. The move is expected to boost routine immunisation efforts and improve protection against tetanus and diphtheria across the country.
Officials believe the launch will enhance vaccine availability and support India’s ongoing efforts to expand public health coverage and disease prevention nationwide.
