Briefly explain Pulse Polio Immunisation Programme.

Pulse polio immunisation programme was launched in 1995-1996 with an aim to eradicate polio disease from the world. It involves simultaneous administration of polio drops (polio vaccine) to whole of the high risk population (i.e., children under three years of age) on a single day throughout the nation. In this programme, 2 doses of vaccine are given 4-6 weeks apart. The prefixed days, on which pulse polio immunisation is to be carried out throughout the country, are called National Immunisation Days. In 1996-1997, the target age group was increased to all children under 5 years of age.