Child Vaccines in India: Complete Schedule & Why It Matters

Introduction

Vaccination is one of the most powerful tools in modern public health. For children, timely vaccination is not just a medical recommendation—it’s a life-saving intervention. In a country as vast and diverse as India, where public health challenges intersect with access and awareness gaps, ensuring that every child receives their recommended vaccines is essential.

From life-threatening diseases like polio and tuberculosis to newer viral threatschildhood immunization helps prevent long-term disability, reduce child mortality, and ease the burden on families and health systems alike. Understanding the vaccination schedule for infants in India, as well as for older children, can empower parents and caregivers to take proactive steps in safeguarding their child’s future.

Why Childhood Vaccination Is Essential in India

Protecting Children from Preventable Diseases

Vaccination remains the most effective defense against diseases such as tuberculosis, polio, measles, diphtheria, and hepatitis B. These illnesses, once common and deadly, now pose a minimal threat in many regions of India thanks to consistent, large-scale immunization efforts. Every vaccinated child is one step closer to a disease-free society.

Vaccination as a Public Health Priority

Childhood vaccination doesn't just protect individuals—it shields entire communities through herd immunity. This is especially important in densely populated or resource-limited areas where disease outbreaks can spread rapidly. India's government-backed initiatives like the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) and Mission Indradhanush aim to achieve over 90% full immunization coverage, especially targeting high-risk and underserved populations.

Also Read: Vaccination Programs: Why They Matter in Underprivileged Children

Age-Wise Vaccination Schedule for Children

Sticking to the correct vaccination timeline is key to effective immunity. Here's an overview of the childhood vaccine schedule as per national guidelines.

From Birth to 1 Year: Infant Vaccination Schedule in India

• At Birth: BCG (Tuberculosis), OPV-0 (Oral Polio), Hepatitis B
• 6, 10, 14 Weeks: DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus), IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine), Hib (Haemophilus Influenzae Type B), Rotavirus, PCV (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine)
• 9 Months: Measles-Rubella (MR), Japanese Encephalitis (JE – in endemic areas), Vitamin A supplement

1 to 5 Years: Toddler and Preschooler Vaccinations

• MR-2 (Second dose of Measles-Rubella)
• DPT Booster and OPV Booster
• JE vaccine (in applicable areas)
• Hepatitis A
• Regular Vitamin A doses

5 to 16 Years: School-Age and Adolescent Immunization

• Td (Tetanus-Diphtheria) Booster at 10 and 16 years
• HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine for girls (recommended for ages 9–14)
• Other boosters as advised by paediatricians

Important Vaccines Every Child Should Receive

Core Vaccines Recommended by WHO and Indian Government

India’s Universal Immunization Program (UIP) includes vaccines that protect against 12 major diseases:

• Tuberculosis, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles, hepatitis B, rubella, Hib, Japanese encephalitis, rotavirus, and pneumococcal diseases.

The Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) also recommends additional vaccines such as

• Typhoid, varicella (chickenpox), influenza, and HPV—especially for children in urban or high-risk areas.

These are some of the most important vaccines for a child in India, offering comprehensive protection through all stages of early development.
Also Read: 8 Reasons Why Immunization Is Critical For Child Health

What Happens If a Child Misses a Vaccine?

Government and NGO Support for Missed Doses

Missing a scheduled vaccine doesn't mean your child is unprotected forever. Government initiatives like Mission Indradhanush and Intensified Immunization Drives ensure that children who miss doses are reached through community health workers, mobile camps, and follow-up visits.

CRY India’s Role in Promoting Child Vaccination

Organizations like CRY India work as facilitators, helping families understand vaccination schedules, supporting access in remote or underserved regions, and mobilizing local health resources in ensuring every child is reached.

• Awareness Campaigns: Educating parents and communities about the importance of childhood vaccines. 
• Health Camps & Drives: Supporting local efforts in organizing immunization days
• Community Mobilization: Link families to immunization services and train volunteers and workers to track vaccination status.
• Policy Advocacy: Collaborating with government partners to improve outreach in hard-to-reach areas
  

These efforts help ensure that children from the most marginalized backgrounds receive their full immunization on time.

Why Staying on the Vaccination Schedule Matters

Following the vaccination schedule for infants in India and beyond is about long-term health, education, and equity. Here’s why it matters:

• Prevents life-threatening illnesses before exposure
• Reduces family healthcare costs by avoiding hospitalization
• Builds herd immunity to protect those who cannot be vaccinated

Strengthens national health systems through early disease tracking and control

Conclusion

Vaccines are the most cost-effective and impactful tools for public health. By adhering to the childhood vaccine schedule, families not only protect their children, but they also contribute to a healthier, more resilient India. With government programs like UIP and advocacy efforts from partners like CRY India, there’s hope for a future where every child receives timely, life-saving immunization, regardless of where they’re born. To learn more about how you can support better child health and ensure every child has a healthy start in life, visit CRY India’s child health initiatives.