AI & Health Camps Boost Medical Outreach at Maha Kumbh 2025
A significant healthcare initiative at the Maha Kumbh involves AI-enabled chest X-ray screenings to detect tuberculosis (TB).
As millions of pilgrims gather for the Maha Kumbh 2025, the healthcare sector has stepped up its efforts to provide advanced medical support.
From AI-assisted chest X-ray interpretations to vision screenings and lipid level checks, medical initiatives are leveraging technology to address public health challenges at the grand religious event.
AI-Powered Tuberculosis Screening
A significant healthcare initiative at the Maha Kumbh involves AI-enabled chest X-ray screenings to detect tuberculosis (TB).
At the temporary Central Hospital in Sector 2, over 1,000 pilgrims seeking medical assistance underwent chest X-ray screenings facilitated by Indian health-tech company Qure.ai.
The AI system flagged 36.22% of X-rays as abnormal, prompting further TB assessments. "These patients were sent for a quick evaluation, and around 12% were diagnosed with TB and promptly started on treatment," said Ankit Modi of Qure.ai.
This initiative aligns with the central government's 100-Day TB Challenge, which aims to identify TB cases early and accelerate treatment efforts.
Given TB's airborne transmission and high infection rate, early detection is crucial. Data from Mumbai's public health system suggests that 30% of patients undergoing chest X-rays for unrelated reasons showed TB indicators.
Vision & Health Screening at Eye Camps
Apart from AI-based TB screening, a Mumbai-based ophthalmologist, Dr. Nishant Kumar, has set up an extensive eye and health camp at the Kumbh.
His goal is to test at least 50,000 pilgrims by February 24, with his team screening nearly 2,000 individuals daily.
Dr. Kumar's team provides instant results via WhatsApp, offering pilgrims and frontline workers timely health insights.
Of the 15,000 already screened, around 3,500 policemen have been provided with free eyeglasses.
In a unique awareness campaign, his team paints Snellen charts—used for vision tests—on the backs of Naga sadhus.
"These sadhus act as influencers, spreading the message of eye health awareness," said Dr. Kumar.
Tackling Diabetes & Other Health Issues
Dr. Kumar's Eyebetes Foundation, supported by over INR 2 crore in corporate social responsibility (CSR) funding, has deployed 10 fundus cameras at the Kumbh for retinal screening. These cameras help detect eye diseases, particularly those linked to diabetes.
In addition, rapid blood sugar tests are being conducted at the camp. However, many pilgrims show abnormal results due to prolonged walking.
"We advise those with unusual readings to undergo an HbA1C test, but many refuse further testing," noted Dr. Kumar.
Technology's Role in Large-Scale Public Health Surveillance
The Maha Kumbh Mela, recognized as the world's largest religious gathering, poses an immense public health challenge, with an estimated 500 million visitors over six weeks.
The integration of AI and digital health solutions ensures efficient disease surveillance and early interventions.
"The deployment of AI at a mass gathering of this scale underscores its potential in strengthening large-scale disease surveillance," said Modi.
Prayagraj's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Arun Kumar Tiwari, acknowledged the benefits of technology in managing the influx of patients.
"With such high patient volumes, AI has enhanced our ability to prioritize individuals for further diagnosis and treatment," he said.
As Maha Kumbh 2025 continues, the fusion of AI-driven healthcare and community outreach is making a tangible impact, ensuring pilgrims receive timely medical support while setting a precedent for future public health initiatives.
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