National Immunization Day (also called National Vaccination Day) is a nationwide healthcare event, typically observed on the 16th of March every year, intending to encourage the deserved recognition of the policymakers, the healthcare workers, as well as the other stakeholders and their works in conducting several successful vaccination drives.

History of the day

The inception of National Vaccination Day dates back to March 16, 1995, marking a pivotal moment in India's healthcare journey. On this day, the first dose of the oral polio vaccine was administered under the Pulse Polio Immunisation Programme, a nationwide initiative aimed at eliminating polio from the country.

This massive effort led to India being declared polio-free by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2014, underscoring the effectiveness of coordinated vaccination campaigns.

Key takeaways

• National Vaccination Day marks India's dedication to public health
• Started on March 16, 1995, with the Pulse Polio Programme
• India was declared polio-free by WHO in 2014.