The U-WIN portal, designed as a digital version of the Covid-19 vaccine management system
Co-WIN, is poised for a nationwide rollout by the end of August. The initiative aims to create an electronic registry for routine immunizations, according to official sources.
At present, U-WIN is being tested in all states and Union Territories, with West Bengal yet to begin data uploads. The state is still deliberating its participation. The U-WIN platform will track every vaccination event for pregnant women and children under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP).
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the U-WIN system in the interim Budget for
2024-2025, noting that it, alongside the intensified Mission Indradhanush efforts, will be deployed nationwide to enhance immunization management.
The portal is set to target approximately 2.9 crore pregnant women and 2.6 crore infants (0-1 years) annually, offering 11 vaccines against 12 preventable diseases, including diphtheria, measles, rubella, and tetanus, through over 1.2 crore vaccination sessions across India. The platform will generate a QR-based, digitally verifiable e-vaccination certificate similar to the Covid vaccination certificate, which can be accessed by citizens with a single click.
Currently, vaccination records under UIP are kept manually. U-WIN will eliminate the need for physical record-keeping, facilitating digital session planning and real-time updates on vaccination status.
A significant issue is that vaccinations conducted at private health facilities are not recorded. U-WIN will become the primary source of information for immunization services, documenting pregnancy details, newborn registrations, and birth immunizations. It will also provide real-time updates on vaccination status and delivery outcomes.
As of July 9, 2024, the pilot phase has recorded 5.33 crore beneficiaries on U-WIN, with over 83.55 lakh vaccination sessions and 18.15 crore doses logged. The platform aims to address zero-dose and left-out children through a name-based tracking system and offer citizens 24/7 access to vaccination services, benefiting mobile populations.
The U-WIN portal is expected to be launched nationwide by the end of August. Citizens will be able to self-register via the U-WIN web portal or Android app, choose vaccination centers, and schedule appointments. Automated SMS notifications will provide updates on registration, administered doses, and upcoming reminders, ensuring timely and age-appropriate vaccinations.
As reported by etvbharat.com, additionally, U-WIN will support the creation of Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) IDs for maintaining comprehensive health records and assist frontline workers in digitally recording all vaccination events for accurate and efficient record-keeping.