Tripura has launched its Statewide Pulse Polio Vaccination Drive as part of the National Immunization Day (NID) 2026, targeting around 3.34 lakh children under the age of five. 

The initiative aims to ensure complete immunization coverage so that no eligible child is left unprotected against poliomyelitis, according to the Director of Health Services, Dr. Debasri Debbarma.

Officials stated that poliomyelitis is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects children aged 0–5 years and can cause permanent paralysis if it damages the nervous system. The virus spreads mainly through contaminated food and water or contact with infected fecal matter. Although India was declared polio-free by the World Health Organization in 2014 after decades of successful Pulse Polio campaigns initiated in 1995, authorities stressed the need for continued vigilance due to the risk of importation from countries where the disease still exists.

As part of the current campaign in Tripura, authorities have set up 3,340 vaccination booths across the state, supported by approximately 13,360 health workers and 672 supervisors to ensure maximum coverage.

The state-level inauguration was held at the West Bhubanban Primary Health Centre in Agartala. The program was formally launched by Dr. Debasri Debbarma, who underscored the importance of timely immunization and urged parents to ensure that every child under five receives polio drops.

Health officials reiterated that such mass immunization drives are crucial for maintaining a polio-free status and safeguarding children’s long-term health. Dr. Shovik Debbarma, Member Secretary of the State Health and Family Welfare Society, also addressed the event, highlighting the importance of community participation in the success of immunization campaigns.