NE NEWS SERVICE
NEW DELHI, FEB 28
In a sweeping push combining public health, infrastructure expansion and scientific advancement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched the nationwide HPV vaccination campaign from Ajmer while inaugurating and laying foundation stones for development projects worth ₹17,000 crore in Rajasthan.
After the launch of the HPV Vaccination Campaign Against Cervical Cancer, spoke with my young friends who have been vaccinated today. This is a decisive step towards protecting the health of our daughters and mothers. pic.twitter.com/HZ9T5mIyV5
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 28, 2026
Addressing a large public gathering, the Prime Minister described the initiatives as pivotal to strengthening women’s health, empowering youth and accelerating the state’s transformation into a hub of opportunity and innovation.
From Ajmer today, the national HPV Vaccination Campaign Against Cervical Cancer has been launched. Manisha Rawat from Ajmer became the first person to be vaccinated as a part of this campaign. This is a major initiative to improve women’s health. pic.twitter.com/hkEdHIeMqX
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 28, 2026
- Nationwide HPV vaccination campaign launched to empower ‘Nari Shakti’ and safeguard women’s health
- ₹17,000-crore mega infrastructure push accelerates Rajasthan’s growth across roads, power, water, health and education
- 21,000 youth receive appointment letters as development initiatives create jobs and opportunities
- National Science Day tribute to Sir C.V. Raman underscores India’s commitment to research, innovation and scientific leadership
- Solar, river-linking and connectivity projects positioned to transform Rajasthan into a global investment and opportunity hub
- Home Minister Amit Shah salutes scientists, calling innovation the guiding force for India’s future
“Our government is committed to all-round development,” said Shri Modi. “Today, I had the privilege of launching the nationwide HPV vaccination campaign from Ajmer, along with the inauguration and foundation stone laying of several projects and the distribution of appointment letters to the youth.”
HPV Vaccination Drive: Safeguarding India’s Women
The nationwide rollout of the HPV vaccination campaign marks a landmark step in preventive healthcare for women and girls.
“The HPV vaccination campaign has commenced from Ajmer, this campaign is a significant step towards empowering the Nari Shakti of the country,” the Prime Minister said.
Highlighting the importance of women’s health, Shri Modi added:
“We all know that when a mother falls ill in the family, the house feels scattered. If the mother is healthy, the family remains capable of facing every crisis. With this sentiment the government has run many schemes to provide support to women.”
He also pointed to mission-mode implementation of sanitation facilities, sanitary hygiene support and maternal care initiatives, including direct financial support of ₹5,000 to ensure proper nutrition during pregnancy.
₹17,000-Crore Projects to Accelerate Rajasthan’s Growth Engine
The Prime Minister announced infrastructure and development projects spanning roads, electricity, water, health and education sectors, aimed at improving quality of life and unlocking employment opportunities.
“The government is fulfilling the promises of development with which it came to serve the people. And today is a day to further accelerate this campaign of development,” Shri Modi emphasised.
More than 21,000 youth received appointment letters at the event, signaling a major boost to employment generation.
Modern connectivity through road, rail and air infrastructure, he said, is transforming Rajasthan’s economic landscape and strengthening tourism circuits such as Ajmer-Pushkar, benefiting artisans, small businesses and local communities.
“The infrastructure being built around the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor is turning Rajasthan into a ‘land of opportunities’ for global investment,” the Prime Minister said.
Solar Energy and River Linking to Shape Rajasthan’s Future
Highlighting Rajasthan’s immense solar potential, Shri Modi noted the transformative impact of rooftop solar adoption.
“There is no shortage of sunlight in Rajasthan, this very sunshine is becoming a source of savings and income for the common man,” he said.
He further noted, “A very significant role is being played by the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme, this scheme has the power to change Rajasthan’s destiny.”
Under the scheme, families receive assistance of ₹78,000 for rooftop solar installations, with over 1.25 lakh households already benefiting from reduced electricity bills.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of river-linking initiatives.
“The campaign to link rivers started by our government will significantly benefit Rajasthan,” he said, referring to major interlinking projects aimed at supporting farmers and ensuring water security.
Double-Engine Governance and Rising Global Stature
Praising the synergy between central and state governments, Shri Modi said:
“The double-engine government is moving forward by taking both Rajasthan’s heritage and development together.”
He also highlighted India’s rising global reputation, citing international recognition of the country’s scientific and technological advancements.
“Prime ministers and presidents of many countries of the world came; the heads of big companies came; everyone praised India with an open mind,” he said.
National Science Day: Tribute to Scientific Legacy and Innovation
Marking National Science Day, the Prime Minister paid tribute to Nobel laureate C. V. Raman and reaffirmed India’s commitment to scientific progress.
“Today, on National Science Day, we celebrate the spirit of research, innovation and scientific curiosity that drives our nation forward,” Shri Modi said.
“This day commemorates the groundbreaking discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir CV Raman. This discovery placed Indian research firmly on the global map.”
He reiterated the government’s resolve to nurture innovation and research ecosystems.
“We reaffirm our resolve to empower our youth, strengthen research ecosystems and harness science and technology for national development and global good.”
Amit Shah Salutes Scientists and Researchers
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended greetings to scientists and researchers on National Science Day.
“Greetings to all our scientists, researchers on National Science Day. Your quest lights our path shaping solutions for a better future. May this day renew our zest and resolve to innovate, build and craft destiny of our choice,” Shri Shah said.
Cultural Pride and Strategic Vision
The Prime Minister paid homage to Rajasthan’s heroic and cultural legacy, including Tejaji Dham and the valor of Major Dalpat Singh.
Reaffirming the vision of national progress, he concluded with a call for collective transformation:
“Developed India from Developed Rajasthan,” he said, envisioning prosperity and opportunity for every family.