Baby Vaccination Schedule India: NIS Chart & Timings Explained
Keeping up with your baby's vaccination schedule is one of the most important tasks in the early years. The Government of India's National Immunization Schedule (NIS) provides a clear roadmap of which vaccines your child needs and when. Missing or delaying a dose can leave a window of vulnerability, while following the schedule ensures the best immune response. This guide walks you through the NIS chart and explains why each timing is chosen, with a tool to help you stay on track.
Why the Timing of Vaccines Matters
Vaccines are scheduled at specific ages because a baby's immune system responds optimally at certain windows, and the risk of certain diseases peaks at different ages. For example, BCG and the first dose of Hepatitis B are given at birth to provide immediate protection. DPT and polio doses are spaced out to build lasting immunity through booster effects. Delaying by more than a few weeks can reduce effectiveness and increase the risk of breakthrough infections.
- Birth doses (BCG, OPV‑0, Hep B birth dose) protect from day one.
- Primary series at 6, 10, 14 weeks builds core immunity.
- Booster at 16‑24 months and later reinforces long‑term protection.
Step-by-step: Use the Vaccination Tracker
- Open the Baby Vaccination Schedule tool.
- Enter your baby's date of birth. The tool maps the NIS schedule and highlights upcoming and overdue vaccines.
- Review the colour‑coded timeline showing which doses are due now, next, and later.
- Check off doses as they are administered to keep a digital record.
National Immunization Schedule (NIS) at a Glance
| Age | Vaccine |
|---|---|
| At birth | BCG, OPV‑0, Hepatitis B (birth dose) |
| 6 weeks | OPV‑1, Penta‑1 (DPT + Hep B + Hib), Rotavirus‑1, PCV‑1 (where applicable) |
| 10 weeks | OPV‑2, Penta‑2, Rotavirus‑2 |
| 14 weeks | OPV‑3, Penta‑3, Rotavirus‑3, PCV‑2 |
| 9‑12 months | Measles‑1, JE‑1 (in endemic districts), PCV booster |
| 16‑24 months | Measles‑2 / MMR, DPT booster, OPV booster, JE‑2 |
| 5‑6 years | DPT booster |
| 10 and 16 years | Tetanus & Diphtheria (Td) booster |
The above table summarizes the core NIS. Some states include additional vaccines like IPV or Hepatitis A. The Pregnancy Due Date Calculator helps you anticipate the birth date and plan the initial birth‑dose vaccines in advance. Always confirm your local schedule with a pediatrician.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my baby misses a vaccine by a few weeks?
Catch‑up schedules exist — vaccines aren't repeated from scratch. A delayed dose can be given at the earliest opportunity, but consult your pediatrician to adjust the schedule safely.
Are painless vaccines better than painful ones?
"Painless" DTaP vaccines cause fewer local reactions but may wane faster. The whole‑cell DPT used in government schedules gives stronger immunity. Discuss the trade‑off with your doctor.
Why are some vaccines given in multiple doses?
Primary series doses prime the immune system, and later boosters produce a stronger, long‑lasting memory response. Skipping a dose can leave immunity incomplete.
Can my baby get vaccinated if they have a mild cold?
A mild illness without fever is generally not a contraindication. Always inform the vaccinator so they can assess the child's condition before administering.
Is it free and private?
Yes — the tool runs entirely in your browser, free, with no sign‑up and nothing uploaded to a server.
Vaccination decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified pediatrician. This guide reflects the Government of India's recommended schedule as of 2025‑26.
Try the Baby Vaccination Schedule Tool