(a) whether the Government have received any representation from Maharashtra Government for Hepatitis B Vaccination Programme;
(b) whether the Government have also received any such request from the other State Governments;
(c) if so, the details thereof, State-wise; and
(d) the action taken by the Government in this regard?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (PROF. RITA VERMA)
(a): Yes Sir, a request from Maharashtra Government for inclusion of Hepatitis B Vaccination in the National Immunization Programme has been received recently.
(b)&(c) : Kerala has requested for inclusion Hepatitis B in the Universal Immunization Programme. Haryana has sent a proposal for funding of Hepatitis B vaccination in the state by UNICEF. Government of Delhi has sought donor assistance through WHO for free supply of Hepatitis B vaccine for five years.
(d): The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has not yet taken a decision for inclusion of Hepatitis B in the Universal Immunization Programme. Hepatitis B is a relatively expensive vaccine. During the current year the Ministry`s priorities are polio eradication and a significant improvement in the reach and quality of the Routine Immunization Programme in the country. However, the Ministry is at present examining a proposal for a pilot project for introduction of Hepatitis B in selected districts and cities.