Kanpur: An indigenous handheld X-ray device has been developed through a collaboration between IIT Kanpur and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) which is being considered as a significant breakthrough in tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis. This innovation promises to enhance early TB detection by offering a more affordable solution, costing less than half the price of imported alternatives. The device aims to improve access to TB screening, especially for vulnerable populations, by enabling portable and convenient testing closer to patients’ homes. ICMR Director General Dr. Rajiv Bahl highlighted this advancement at the 19th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA) INDIA-2024. He emphasized that this new technology could significantly improve India’s public health outcomes by facilitating more widespread and timely TB diagnosis and treatment.
