India marks 15 years polio-free, strengthens global role in eradication

India celebrates 15 years polio‑free! From 741 cases in 2009 to zero since 2011, strong immunisation drives keep millions of children safe

India has achieved a remarkable public health milestone, completing 15 years without a single reported case of wild poliovirus. The country, once considered the epicenter of polio, has sustained its polio-free status since 2011, when the last case was recorded.

In 2009, India reported 741 cases of polio, accounting for nearly 60% of the global burden. Through an unprecedented immunisation campaign, this number was reduced to zero within two years. Each year, nearly 100 crore doses of vaccine were administered to around 17.2 crore children, overcoming challenges of scale, sanitation, and accessibility. Success was driven by frontline health workers, extensive door-to-door campaigns, and strong political commitment.

The Ministry of Health credits India’s achievement to sustained vigilance and robust health systems. Special focus has been placed on reaching mobile and high-risk populations. Technology platforms such as U-WIN, e-VIN, and Safevac now support routine immunisation, which covers over 93% of children nationwide.

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Globally, wild poliovirus remains endemic in only two countries, though variant outbreaks continue in regions with low immunisation. India plays a critical role in combating these threats, with Hyderabad-based Biological E among the few manufacturers of the novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2).

Experts caution against complacency, stressing that high coverage and continued surveillance are vital to prevent resurgence. With its technical expertise and operational strategies, India is well-positioned to assist other nations in achieving a polio-free future.

This milestone underscores India’s transformation from a country once burdened by polio to a global leader in eradication efforts.

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