Initiatives/ Schemes HPV Vaccination Programme Context: The State government’s Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme reached 81% coverage in the four pilot districts of Ariyalur, Tiruvannamalai, Perambalur and Dharmapuri. The HPV vaccination programme was launched on January 27 by the Tamil Nadu State government. Target Group: 14-year-old girls are being vaccinated to protect against Cervical Cancer caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Pilot Districts: The programme started in Ariyalur, Tiruvannamalai, Perambalur, and Dharmapuri. The vaccination programme, which was started in the four districts in campaign mode, was conducted in government and government-aided schools. Nationwide Initiative: The Government of India launched a national HPV vaccination campaign on February 28. Vaccination Facilities: Vaccines are now available at Primary Health Centres, Government Hospitals, and Government Medical College Hospitals. Vaccine Used: A single-dose Gardasil HPV vaccine is given to 14-year-old girls. Tamil Nadu Unveils Statue Reflecting Growth of Education Sector Context: Chief Minister inaugurated the “Kattranai Thoorum Arivu” statue installed at Marina Beach at a cost of Rs1.43 crore. The statue installed by the Tamil Nadu Text book and Educational Services Corporation is aimed at showcasing the development of the state’s education department. The release noted that TN continues to excel in the field of education through continuous improvements in educational planning, administration and infrastructure from class I to XII. In the centre of the sculpture, a man and a woman are seen rising towards the sky. They are depicted overcoming the barriers of poverty, circumstance and geography. The sculpture symbolizes the moment when learning transforms one’s aspirations and dreams into achievements. The figures of a boy, a girl and a differently-abled student at the base of this sculpture complex affirm that education is a birth right for every child and that no learner is left behind. From this strong base, figures representing the diverse…
