Immunization programs are the cornerstone of public health, world over. Vaccination was practiced in India since the early 1900s, especially against small pox, in late 1940's. A National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) was set up in 2003, and a Midterm Strategic Plan (MTSP) developed in 2004. From April 2005, immunization is an important component of RCH II under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM). (Editorial)