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Science & TechnologySource: Press Information Bureau

Union Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda Launches Indigenously Manufactured Tetanus & Adult Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine at Central Research Institute, Himachal Pradesh

Monday, 23 February 2026
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Key Points

The Union Health Minister, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, launched the indigenously manufactured Tetanus & Adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine at the Central Research Institute, Himachal Pradesh. This development is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it relates to GS Paper 2 and 3, focusing on health and technology. Last Updated: 23-02-2026

Key Facts About the Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine

  • Dual Protection: The Td vaccine protects against both Tetanus (T) and Diphtheria (d), unlike the traditional Tetanus Toxoid (TT) vaccine.
  • Reduced Antigen Content: The “d” in Td signifies a reduced dose of diphtheria toxoid, minimizing side effects while boosting immunity in adults and adolescents.
  • Replacement of TT: WHO and NTAGI recommend replacing the TT vaccine with the Td vaccine to enhance diphtheria protection and sustain tetanus elimination gains.
  • Universal Immunization Programme (UIP): The Td vaccine is now part of the world’s largest immunization initiative, with CRI Kasauli supplying 5.5 million doses by April 2026.
  • Regulatory Approvals: CRI has completed development, secured approvals, and started commercial manufacturing of the Td vaccine.
  • Supply Commitment: CRI Kasauli will supply 5.5 million doses by April 2026.

India's Health Security and Vaccine Self-Reliance

The launch of the Td vaccine is a significant stride towards self-reliance in vaccine production, aligning with India's strategic goals of enhancing national health security. This initiative supports India's economic and social objectives by strengthening public health infrastructure and contributing to global health efforts. The vaccine's integration into the Universal Immunization Programme highlights India's commitment to sustainable health advancements.

UPSC Relevance

  • GS Paper 2: Health and Education - The role of government policies in public health.
  • GS Paper 3: Science and Technology - Indigenization of technology and developing new technology.
  • Prelims Angle: Facts about the Td vaccine, its dual protection, and its integration into the UIP.
  • Mains Angle: Analysis of India's vaccine self-reliance and its impact on national health security.

FAQ Section

  • What is the Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine?
    The Td vaccine provides protection against both Tetanus and Diphtheria, unlike the traditional TT vaccine, which only protects against Tetanus.
  • Why is the Td vaccine important?
    The Td vaccine is crucial as it enhances protection against diphtheria and sustains tetanus elimination gains, contributing to national health security.
  • What are the key features of the Td vaccine?
    The Td vaccine offers dual protection, reduced antigen content for minimal side effects, and is part of the Universal Immunization Programme.

Detailed Coverage

  • Dual Protection: Protects against both Tetanus and Diphtheria.
  • Reduced Antigen Content: Formulated for adults to minimize side effects.
  • Replacement of TT: WHO recommends transitioning to Td vaccine.
  • Commercial Manufacturing: CRI has begun production of the Td vaccine.
  • Universal Immunization Programme: Td vaccine inducted into UIP, supplying 5.5 million doses by 2026.
  • Tetanus Etiology: Caused by Clostridium tetani spores found in soil.
  • Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus: Significant cause of death in low-income settings.
  • Symptoms of Tetanus: Includes jaw cramping and muscle spasms.
  • Prevention Strategy: Tetanus is preventable through vaccination.
  • Global Progress: Neonatal tetanus deaths reduced by 97% globally.
  • Digital Tracking: U-WIN platform tracks vaccinations for 50 million beneficiaries.
  • Diphtheria Etiology: Caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
  • Transmission of Diphtheria: Spreads through respiratory droplets.
  • Pseudomembrane Formation: Thick tissue coating in nose and throat within days of infection.
  • Fatal Complications: Toxin can cause myocarditis and neuropathy.
  • Treatment: Requires Diphtheria Antitoxin and antibiotics.
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Practice Questions

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The prevention of Tetanus through vaccination is critical, especially in low-income settings where Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus (MNT) remains a significant health challenge. What is the primary cause of MNT in these regions?