Uttar Pradesh’s massive vaccination drive provides free COVID-19 shots to all eligible residents, targeting 100% coverage. With over 2.2 billion doses administered nationwide, UP intensifies efforts through mobile camps and awareness campaigns to combat hesitancy. The state aims to bolster herd immunity amid rising cases, leveraging robust infrastructure and community outreach.
Uttar Pradesh Rolls Out Free Vaccination for All
Massive Scale of UP’s Vaccination Campaign
Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, has launched an extensive vaccination drive offering free COVID-19 shots to all eligible residents above 12 years of age. As of August 2025, India has administered over 2.2 billion doses, with UP contributing significantly to this figure. The state has set up thousands of vaccination centers, including 10,000 government facilities and over 20,000 private hospitals, to ensure accessibility.
Targeting Full Coverage
The campaign aims to achieve 100% vaccination coverage for UP’s estimated 108 crore eligible population (aged 12+). As of March 2023, 95% of India’s eligible population had received at least one dose, and 88% were fully vaccinated. UP is intensifying efforts to close the gap, particularly in rural areas, where vaccine hesitancy remains a challenge. The state has reported administering over 88 lakh doses on a single day, setting a national record.
Mobile Camps and Door-to-Door Initiatives
To reach remote and underserved areas, UP has deployed mobile vaccination camps and door-to-door services. These initiatives address logistical challenges, such as transportation in rural regions, and aim to prevent mass gatherings at healthcare centers, reducing the risk of virus transmission. Drones have been utilized to deliver vaccines to far-flung villages, a strategy also used in other parts of India like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Combating Vaccine Hesitancy
Vaccine hesitancy, particularly in rural and tribal areas, has been a hurdle. UP’s health officials are collaborating with community health workers, religious leaders, and local influencers to dispel myths and build trust. Awareness campaigns emphasize the safety and efficacy of vaccines like Covishield, Covaxin, and Corbevax, which dominate India’s vaccination program. These efforts have boosted uptake, with second-dose coverage rising significantly since July 2021.
Free Booster Doses for All Adults
In a significant move, UP has extended free booster doses (precautionary doses) to all adults, aligning with the national campaign launched in July 2022 to mark 75 years of India’s independence. Over 55 million booster doses have been administered nationwide, with UP prioritizing high-risk groups and expanding access to private centers. The state has also introduced Bharat Biotech’s intranasal vaccine, iNCOVACC, as a booster option.
Infrastructure and Supply Chain
UP’s vaccination drive is supported by a robust cold chain infrastructure, including the Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network (eVIN), which tracks vaccine stocks and storage temperatures in real-time. The state has increased production of Covishield and Covaxin, with manufacturers committing to supply 100 million and 80 million doses per month, respectively, to meet demand.
Challenges and Resolutions
Despite progress, UP faces challenges like supply shortages and digital barriers. The initial requirement for CoWIN registration posed issues for those without smartphones, but the state has since waived preregistration to accelerate the process. Health officials are also addressing misinformation, particularly in districts like South Salmara Mankachar, where vaccine uptake was as low as 3% due to community suspicions.
Impact on Public Health
The drive is critical as UP reports rising COVID-19 cases, with India recording 20,528 daily cases in July 2022, a four-month high. By vaccinating its population, UP aims to build herd immunity, targeting 70-75% coverage. The state’s efforts align with India’s Universal Immunization Programme, which has reduced under-5 mortality rates and eliminated diseases like polio and maternal tetanus.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the latest available data from credible sources, including government reports, health ministry updates, and reputable news outlets. Information is subject to change as new developments emerge. Readers are advised to verify details with official health authorities for the most current guidance.