Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered handheld X-ray devices were deployed across multiple states for TB Screening as part of the 100-day intensified ‘TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan,’ the Minister of State for Health informed the Rajya Sabha on 28th of March.
In a written response, Minister Anupriya Patel stated that the government has integrated AI tools—validated and recommended by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)—for analyzing chest X-rays and interpreting Line Probe Assay (LPA) results.
The AI-powered DeepCXR tool is being used for automatic chest X-ray readings, while another AI-based system streamlines the automated interpretation, recording, and entry of LPA test results, she added.
Under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), the DeepCXR tool has been adopted for automated chest X-ray analysis and is available to the government at no cost. It has been deployed in eight states and Union Territories to assist in diagnosing presumptive TB cases, Patel further stated.
The 100-day intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan was launched on December 7, 2024, covering 347 priority districts across the country.
“To improve screening efforts among vulnerable populations, AI-driven handheld X-rays have been utilized in various states. The government has also sanctioned their procurement for central supplies to increase accessibility in high-burden areas. These handheld devices will be used alongside AI tools to identify presumptive TB cases more efficiently,” Patel concluded.
