J P Nadda Launches Measles-Rubella Drive in India

In a major stride towards eliminating life-threatening childhood diseases, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare,, today virtually launched the National Measles-Rubella (M-R) Elimination Campaign 2025-26. The initiative coincides with the start of World Immunization Week (April 24–30), reinforcing India’s commitment to achieving Measles and Rubella elimination by 2026.

A National Mission for Child Health

Addressing the nation during the virtual launch, Shri J.P. Nadda emphasized the significance of the campaign in ensuring a high-quality, disease-free life for . He noted, “Today is a momentous occasion, as the campaign marks an opportunity to achieve 100% immunization coverage through the two-dose Measles-Rubella vaccine protocol.”

Measles and Rubella are highly contagious diseases that continue to pose serious health risks to children, particularly in under-vaccinated areas. The Union Health Minister underscored the urgent need to leave no child behind, especially in remote and vulnerable regions.

Multi-Language IEC Materials Rolled Out

As part of the campaign, the Ministry released a comprehensive set of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials in multiple languages, including:

• Posters and pamphlets
• Radio jingles
• An official film on MR Elimination
• A special launch video for the U-WIN platform

These materials were distributed to all States and Union Territories to ensure uniform implementation and awareness during the campaign.

Recognized Globally for Progress

Shri Nadda also celebrated India’s recent achievement of receiving the prestigious Measles and Rubella Champion Award 2024 from the Measles and Rubella Partnership, acknowledging the country’s strides in disease control.

He revealed that as of January to March 2025, 332 districts reported zero measles cases, and 487 districts reported zero rubella cases, demonstrating tangible progress toward the national elimination goal.

Intensified Surveillance and Community Participation

The Health Minister emphasized the need to keep the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) actively operational and urged health departments nationwide to remain highly vigilant.

He appealed to State Ministers, Chief Medical Officers, MLAs, MPs, Panchayat leaders, and frontline health workers to play an active role in spreading awareness and reaching unreached populations, including:

• Slums
• Migratory communities
• Remote and high-risk regions
• Areas with previous outbreaks

“ACT NOW” Approach to Eradication

Shri Nadda invoked a nationwide ‘ACT NOW’ policy, stressing the importance of immediate and coordinated efforts across ministries, departments, and community leadership.

“We have eliminated Polio and Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus in the past with dedication,” he stated. “With the same spirit, we can eliminate Measles and Rubella.”

He concluded with a powerful call to action: “If we work and act from today, we will be able to achieve success tomorrow.”