CEC Dr. Jaffer Akhoon Launches Intensified Pulse Polio Drive in Kargil; 12,064 Children Vaccinated on Day One

Kargil, Ladakh — December 21, 2025:

The Intensified Pulse Polio Immunization (IPPI) Programme 2025 was officially launched in Kargil by Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor (CEC), LAHDC Kargil. The mega district-wide campaign began with overwhelming public participation, successfully administering Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) drops to 12,064 children below five years of age on the first day, safeguarding them against the risk of polio.

The inaugural event witnessed the presence of top officials, including ADC/Joint Director Information Imteeaz Kacho, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kacho Liyaqat Ali Khan, Deputy CMO Dr. Fatima Banoo, State Nodal Officer Leprosy Dr. Fatima Nissa, BMO Dr. Jalil Wani, and District Program Officer Mohd Ishaq, among others.

Massive Coverage Through Strong Health Infrastructure

To achieve complete coverage, the Health Department deployed a strong logistical setup across all seven blocks of the district. A total of 386 IPPI booths, supported by two mobile teams and a dedicated workforce of 1,544 P-teams and 76 supervisors, ensured smooth execution of the programme.

Out of an allocated 13,742 OPV vials, 694 vials were utilized on Day 1, reflecting the district’s preparedness to sustain the immunization drive efficiently.

Block-wise Highlights

Kargil block recorded the highest turnout with 4,357 children vaccinated Sankoo followed with 3,223 children Drass vaccinated 1,316 children Zanskar covered 891 children Shargole vaccinated 870 children Taisuru reached 761 children Chicktan covered 646 children

Next Phase: Door-to-Door ‘Mop-Up’ Drive

Building on the successful booth-based immunization, ADC Imteeaz Kacho announced the start of the door-to-door mop-up phase, ensuring that no child under five is left unvaccinated. Health teams will visit households to identify and immunize children who may have missed the booth day, reinforcing the district’s commitment toward complete polio protection.

Meanwhile, the District Health Society Kargil has submitted the consolidated Day 1 report to the UT-level monitoring team for further review.

The successful launch of the IPPI programme reflects Kargil’s strong administrative coordination, health preparedness, and dedication to safeguarding the future of its children.