M3M Foundation, in partnership with the Health Department of Haryana, has successfully vaccinated more than 600 adolescent girls against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in the Tauru Block of Nuh district. This initiative is part of a broader effort to prevent cervical cancer through community awareness and early intervention.
Innovative Awareness Campaign
The foundation deployed dedicated Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials developed by SYImpact Consulting, including interactive games like Snake & Ladder and Ludo, flip books, quiz cards, HPV awareness songs, informative reels, and AI-powered storytelling modules. These tools made conversations about preventive healthcare more engaging and accessible.
Spread across 84 villages and 54 Gram Panchayats, the campaign conducted over 90 awareness sessions and reached more than 60 government schools. Over 3,000 stakeholders—including school children, mothers, teachers, ASHA workers, health officials, and community members—were mobilized.
Overcoming Misinformation
Initially, the initiative faced significant challenges due to misinformation and social apprehensions. Concerns about infertility, fears of adverse side effects, misleading narratives on social media, and religious misconceptions influenced community perceptions. However, continuous engagement and open dialogue gradually built trust among families.
Dr. Nihal Singh Solanki, Senior Medical Officer at CHC Tauru, Haryana, stated, "Community awareness is key to the success of preventive healthcare initiatives. Our collaboration with M3M Foundation has helped strengthen acceptance of HPV vaccination and reach families more effectively at the grassroots level."
Beneficiary Stories
One beneficiary shared, "Initially, we had many doubts after hearing different things from people and social media. But after attending the awareness session, we understood why the vaccine is important. After getting vaccinated, I feel more confident and now encourage other girls to learn about it and make informed decisions for their health."
Commitment to Preventive Healthcare
Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee of M3M Foundation, commented, "Inspired by Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's vision of preventive healthcare, we are committed to ensuring that girls in underserved communities receive the right information and access to timely healthcare. Awareness has the power to transform communities and secure a healthier future for the next generation."
Through its continued partnership with the Health Department, Haryana, M3M Foundation remains dedicated to strengthening community health systems and translating awareness into action, protecting the health and future of young girls across underserved communities.
