A major Lancet study reveals a stark global health setback in 2023: more than half of the 15.7 million unvaccinated children worldwide live in just eight countries, including India. India is specifically cited among Nigeria, Congo, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Indonesia, and Brazil.

The report shows global vaccination efforts have stalled since 2010, culminating in 14.5 million zero‑dose children in 2023—an increase from 13.9 million in 2022. These children missed critical vaccines for measles, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, and polio, elevating the risk of disease resurgence.

India faces its own stark statistics, with UNICEF–WHO data reporting approx. 1.6 million zero‑dose children in 2023, the second‑highest global total after Nigeria. Persistent challenges—ranging from supply-side constraints and poverty to vaccine hesitancy—particularly in underserved regions such as Uttar Pradesh and northeastern states, continue to hinder coverage.

Global experts and the WHO warn that without urgent restoration of vaccination campaigns, the world may face outbreaks. The situation in India spotlights the importance of targeted local efforts, echoing the objectives of Mission Indradhanush, Intensified Mission Indradhanush, and broader public health initiatives