The Serum Institute of India has sought the government’s permission to manufacture and market the indigenously developed QHPV vaccine against cervical cancer. The firm will soon seek market authorization and license from the DCGI to ensure easy availability in the country. The director of the firm stated that the manufacturing period of the vaccine is about five to six months as stated in a letter to Union Health Ministry.

Singh, the director also stated that the manufacturing and stockpiling of the vaccine will help reduce our nation’s dependency on the foreign countries and the high prices paid to obtain the vaccines. In the application seeking governmental approval, the prevalence of the disease was mentioned as the second most frequent cancer among the ladies of the 15-44 years age group. 

He also added that in line with PM Modi’s aim of achieving “Make in India for the World” and affordable vaccines for all, the firm will assure the availability of the vaccine for the Indian population and others at large. An official source also added that approval of the vaccine will save time in the inclusion process in the vaccine in the Universal Immunization Program.