Haryana Government Launches Comprehensive AI-Driven Tuberculosis Detection Campaign
The Haryana government has initiated a groundbreaking artificial intelligence-powered tuberculosis detection campaign, supported by a substantial ₹20.5 crore corporate social responsibility partnership with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL). This ambitious initiative aims to revolutionize early diagnosis and significantly expand testing capabilities across high-risk regions throughout the state.
Strategic Shift from Passive to Active Screening
Announced during World TB Week by Additional Chief Secretary (Health & Family Welfare) Dr. Sumita Misra, this program represents a fundamental transformation from traditional passive detection methods to proactive, community-based active screening. The campaign will deploy AI-enabled handheld X-ray devices across 2,111 identified high-risk villages and urban wards, bringing advanced diagnostic technology directly to vulnerable populations.
BPCL Partnership Enhances Testing Infrastructure
Through the strategic collaboration with BPCL, the state will receive 150 Truenat Quattro molecular diagnostic machines to substantially boost rapid testing capacity at the grassroots level. This critical infrastructure investment addresses one of the most persistent challenges in TB control: reducing delays between initial symptoms and confirmed diagnosis, which can dramatically improve treatment outcomes and reduce transmission.
Comprehensive Last-Mile Healthcare Delivery
To ensure healthcare reaches even the most remote communities, Haryana has deployed 65 Mobile Medical Units and Ni-Kshay Vahans to provide comprehensive on-site diagnostic services in underserved areas. Additionally, a dedicated telemedicine center has been established at the State TB Cell in Panchkula to offer continuous support for patients and frontline health workers, creating a robust digital healthcare ecosystem.
Strengthening Diagnostic and Treatment Systems
The state government has simultaneously marked the certification of the SL-CDST laboratory in Rohtak, significantly enhancing advanced diagnostic capabilities within Haryana's healthcare infrastructure. In a parallel effort to improve treatment outcomes, authorities released a comprehensive TB death audit booklet designed to identify systemic gaps and implement corrective measures.
Holistic Patient Support and Rehabilitation
Beyond medical intervention, the campaign includes substantial rehabilitation support for recovered patients. The government distributed sewing machines and vocational training certificates to facilitate livelihood restoration, addressing the socioeconomic dimensions of tuberculosis recovery. To combat persistent stigma surrounding the disease, awareness messages featuring public figures have been disseminated statewide.
Specialized Screening for Essential Services
Recognizing the particular vulnerability of certain occupational groups, health authorities launched a comprehensive TB screening drive for Haryana Police personnel from the police headquarters. This targeted approach ensures that essential service providers receive appropriate healthcare attention while maintaining public safety operations.
Ambitious Testing Targets and Vision
Dr. Sumita Misra emphasized that this campaign represents a decisive transition to a community-based surveillance model with ambitious testing targets. The state aims to conduct 15 lakh sputum tests this year, a significant increase from the 12.5 lakh tests conducted in 2025. "Our ultimate goal is to achieve a TB-free Haryana where no patient remains undetected due to geographical barriers or social stigma," she declared, outlining a comprehensive vision for public health transformation.
