Just one intent, to combat TB! Centre steps up to explore AI based solutions in coping TB; Signs MoU with Wadhwani Institute for AI

New Delhi, August 30: Viewing to explore the application of cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence technology in its fight against TB, the Central TB Division of the Health Ministry has signed a MoU with Wadhwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence on Friday.

 

 

"Infrastructure is progressing rapidly in the country with Prevention and Affordability. 2 days ago, the government has also decided to set up 75 new medical colleges. This will not only increase the facilities for the treatment of serious diseases, but will also increase about 16 thousand MBBS seats", said PM Modi while addressing the delegates at Minitsry of Aayush on Friday.

 

"When we are opening 1.5 lakh health and wellness centers in the country, Ayush is not forgotten. There is also a target to build 12 thousand five hundred AYUSH centers across the country, out of which 10 AYUSH Health and Wellness Centers have been inaugurated today. Our effort is that 4 thousand AYUSH centers should be ready this year", he added.

 

The said MoU was signed by Vikas Sheel and Dr P Anandan, CEO, Wadhwani AI. As part of the collaboration, Wadhwani AI would be supporting National TB programme become AI-ready which would include, developing, piloting, and deploying AI-based solutions.

"It would support the programme in vulnerability and hot-spot mapping, modelling novel methods of screening and diagnostics and enabling decision support for care-givers apart from supporting the RNTCP in adoption of other AI technologies", the statement read.

 

The Revised National TB Control Programme has been at the forefront of adoption of newer technologies in healthcare. Artificial Intelligence provides a unique opportunity for the health sector, bringing efficiency, saving resources and bringing accuracy in interpretation and enhancing quality of service delivery.

 

Its use in this sector has an ample scope to improve outcomes, especially in situations where resources are limited. India is committed to ending TB by 2025, five years ahead of the Global Sustainable Development targets.