GOA TAKES A STEP FORWARD TOWARDS TB MUKT STATE WITH AI-ENABLED ULTRAPORTABLE DIGITAL X-RAY SYSTEMS
Panaji, September 5, 2025
Aligning with the “TB Mukt Bharat” vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Goa is steadily heading towards becoming a TB Mukt State, stated Health Minister Shri Vishwajeet Rane at a special function held at Institute Menezes Braganza Hall, Panaji.
On the occasion, Rotary Foundation, Rotary Club of Panaji Riviera in association with Rotary Club of Dona Paula and Rotary International Districts – 3640 (South Korea), 5930 (USA) and 3170 (India) handed over AI-Enabled Ultraportable Digital X-ray System to the Directorate of Health Services, Government of Goa under Global Grant GG2478242.
Speaking at the function, the Health Minister highlighted the crucial role played by Rotarians in strengthening Goa’s infrastructure. He also informed that the State-of-the-Art Cancer Hospital developed in collaboration with Tata Memorial Centre will soon be set up in Goa. Emphasizing the mission of saving lives, Shri Rane expressed gratitude to the Rotary Clubs for dedicating this advanced diagnostic equipment to the Directorate of Health Services.
Under this grant, four units of the Prorad Ultraportable Digital X-ray System equipped with Artificial Intelligence have been contributed to four Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in Goa, namely PHC Navelim, PHC Betki, PHC Curtorim and PHC Corlim.
This initiative is part of the Rotary Panaji Riviera and Dona Paula TB Diagnostics and Cure Program, a Global Grant Program aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision of a TB Mukt Bharat by 2025.
The primary objective of the project is the early detection and timely treatment of tuberculosis, particularly in rural and remote areas, thereby benefitting the underprivileged and vulnerable sections of Goa’s population. Beyond TB, these AI-powered X-ray systems will also aid in the diagnosis of lung cancer, fractures, and other thoracic ailments during routine health check-ups.
A short video showcasing the impact of the TB X-ray system in strengthening Goa’s medical facilities was screened during the function. The donors of the grant were felicitated at the hands of dignitaries.
The event was graced by Dr. Rupa Naik, Director, Directorate of Health Services; Rtn. Sharad Pai, District Governor 2024-25, RID 3170; Rtn. Hong Kyoo Jo, District Governor 2024-25, RID 3640 South Korea; Dr. Manish Gaunekar, Chief Medical Officer, National TB Elimination Program; Rtn. Jeet Tolani; Rtn. Azeema Kulkarni; Rtn. Raja Melwani; DHS Officers, Doctors, Senior Rotarians and others.
Rtn. Tanvi Sawant, Club President 2024-25, Rotary Club Panaji Riviera welcomed the gathering while Rtn. Philip Alvares, Club Secretary 2024-25, Rotary Club of Dona Paula proposed the vote of thanks.
DI/INF/AXP/ UB/ 2025/678