India launched the ambitious 100-day Tuberculosis (TB) challenge over 50 days ago, aiming to enhance patient detection and improve service delivery among high-risk groups. As we crossed the halfway point last week, it is encouraging to see significant progress in mass screening through mobile diagnostic units, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven tools, and rapid molecular testing. The first 50 days have demonstrated strong momentum, but scaling up the procurement of portable X-ray machines and AI-powered diagnostic tools will further enhance state-led programs. In the remaining 50 days, India must intensify screening efforts, integrate cutting-edge diagnostic technologies, and strengthen peripheral primary healthcare services.
States Expanded Active Case Finding
Shortly after the initiative’s launch, many states expanded their Active Case Finding (ACF) campaigns, focusing on chronic patients, undernourished areas, and other vulnerable regions.
In Odisha, the Nikshay Vahan initiative is driving an extensive screening campaign using mobile diagnostic units. Tamil Nadu has already screened over 100,000 individuals in Tiruchi district, proactively identifying cases in high-risk groups.
Karnataka has successfully incorporated AI-based chest X-ray interpretation, significantly improving TB case detection speed and accuracy. Additionally, rapid molecular diagnostics have revolutionized this initiative, with indigenous technologies like Truenat delivering results within hours rather than days.
For mass screening to be effective within the given timeframe, it must be supplemented with portable imaging technologies, enabling real-time lung screening, particularly in rural and remote areas where access to large diagnostic centers is limited. AI-driven chest X-ray analysis further enhances detection rates, ensuring that all potential TB suspects undergo immediate molecular confirmation testing.As we move into the second phase of the 100-day TB challenge, addressing gaps in screening coverage is essential.
Key focus areas include deploying mobile diagnostic units equipped with molecular testing and portable X-ray machines to improve screening in tribal, migrant, and urban slum populations. Screening is only the first step. Timely follow-ups, immediate treatment initiation, and ensuring patient adherence are crucial. The Ni-kshay platform must be reinforced to reduce dropout rates and improve patient tracking.Government-led efforts, when combined with private sector innovations in portable imaging and AI-assisted rapid diagnostics, can accelerate TB elimination.
Expanding existing public health protocols will ensure that even the most underserved communities benefit from early detection and swift treatment. The final phase of this initiative is crucial—targeted screening, innovative diagnostic solutions, and strengthened last-mile healthcare connectivity can drive lasting impact.The time to act is now. Every undiagnosed case is a missed opportunity in our journey towards a TB-free India.
