Union Health Minister to Launch Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine at CRI Kasauli

💉 Td Vaccine Launch at CRI Kasauli

Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Shri J.P. Nadda, is set to launch the Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine on 21st February 2026. The launch event will take place at the historic Central Research Institute (CRI) in Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh.

Feb 21, '26 Launch Date

CRI Kasauli Venue

55 Lakh Doses by Apr '26

🔄 Policy Shift: From TT to Td Vaccine

Extensive scientific evidence shows that while childhood DPT immunization has reduced tetanus and diphtheria, antibody levels (especially for Diphtheria) decline over time, necessitating booster doses.

🌐 Global Recommendation

In 2006, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended that countries transition from the Tetanus Toxoid (TT) vaccine to the Td vaccine. This was reaffirmed by the SAGE in 2002 and 2016.

🇮🇳 India's NTAGI Directive

The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) recommended replacing the TT vaccine with the Td vaccine in India’s programme for all age groups, including pregnant women.

🔬 Vaccine Composition & CRI's Contribution

The Central Research Institute (CRI), functioning under the Directorate General of Health Services since 1905, has undertaken the complete manufacturing of the Td vaccine to support this initiative.

Composition: The Td vaccine combines purified diphtheria toxoid and purified tetanus toxoid.
Additives: The antigens are adsorbed onto aluminum phosphate (acting as an adjuvant), and thiomersal is added as a preservative.
Supply Chain: CRI successfully secured all trial waivers and licenses, and is slated to supply 55 lakh doses to the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) by April 2026.

📚 Prelims Quiz Corner

1. The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) recommended replacing the Tetanus Toxoid (TT) vaccine with which vaccine for all age groups?