Soon, diagnosis of diseases and injuries from X-rays will be possible in the most far-flung areas of J&K, even where a specialist doctor is not available.
The procurement process for 275 AI-enabled portable X-ray machines has commenced, aimed at strengthening diagnostic services across government health facilities.
The tenders for the supply of portable X-ray machines have been floated, officials in Health and Medical Education Department said.
The procurement follows the implementation of the Centre’s announcement made earlier this year.
It was stated that J&K was sanctioned 275 AI-enabled handheld portable X-ray machines, nine 1.5-Tesla MRI units, and four digital mammography units under the Prime Minister’s Fund.
The initiative is expected to significantly enhance diagnostic capabilities in peripheral areas.
A vast expanse of J&K’s areas and a significant population have limited access to advanced imaging services.
In addition, the specialist radiologists remain limited.
The AI-enabled systems are expected to assist healthcare staff to rapidly interpret X-ray images, and support early detection of diseases such as tuberculosis. It will also help in detection of fractures and other injuries.
The equipment is part of a broader effort to modernise public healthcare infrastructure in J&K.
In recent months, Health Minister Sakina Itoo has repeatedly underscored the government’s focus on upgrading diagnostic infrastructure.
Advanced technologies such as AI-enabled X-ray systems, MRI units and other imaging facilities are being introduced, she said, to improve patient care, reduce waiting times and expand access to quality diagnostics.
The Centre’s package also includes nine MRI units and four digital mammography machines. These will improve the diagnostic facilities for cancers and other life-threatening diseases.
The equipment is expected to improve early diagnosis and reduce reporting delays. These will also aid in screening programmes, particularly in remote districts.
