The state-of-the-art TrueNAT diagnostic facility under Anu Diagnostics was inaugurated with great enthusiasm at B.K.L. Walawalkar Rural Medical College & Hospital, Dervan. The inauguration ceremony was graced by the institution’s प्रेरणास्थान (inspiration) and mentor, Shri Kaka Maharaj. Guided by the motto “Health for All, Women Empowerment, and Upliftment of the Poor and Needy,” and with the support of Founder Chairman Shri Vikas Walawalkar, this advanced facility has been established under the Department of Microbiology in the Vishnu (Virology) Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL). The initiative has been implemented under the able leadership of Medical Superintendent Dr. Suvarna Patil and Dr. Netaji Patil, with the aim of strengthening diagnostic services and improving patient care. This advanced TrueNAT facility will significantly contribute to the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) by enabling faster and more accurate diagnosis. The machine makes it possible to conduct 44 new diagnostic tests at affordable costs with a much quicker turnaround time. Previously, many of these tests required samples to be sent to Mumbai, which resulted in higher expenses and delays of five to seven days in receiving reports. With the introduction of this facility, reports will now be available locally within a few hours, ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment. In recent months, the unavailability of CBNAAT cartridges in the region had posed serious challenges in tuberculosis detection; however, the TrueNAT system now offers a reliable and efficient alternative. It allows rapid detection of tuberculosis along with identification of Rifampicin resistance, thereby helping doctors make better and more informed treatment decisions. On this occasion, Shri Kaka Maharaj guided the gathering with his inspiring words, stating, “Work tirelessly for patient welfare. The reputation of the institution grows through dedicated service. Serving patients is true service to God.” Medical Superintendent Dr. Suvarna Patil emphasized that the staff and doctors of the VRDL department should continue to work with the same sincerity, dedication, and teamwork that they demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dean Dr. Manasingrao Ghatge also highlighted the importance of ensuring that the maximum benefit of this advanced facility reaches patients and urged all doctors to utilize it effectively for better healthcare outcomes. The event was attended by several distinguished dignitaries including Shri Shripati Walawalkar, Dr. Anand Joshi, Dr. Anil Kurane, Dr. Anagha Modak, Dr. Deshpande, Dr. Neelam Shirsath, Dr. Janjurwad, Dr. Amey Paranjpe, Dr. Vinod Shinde, Dr. Prashant Maulya, Dr. Manish Badoni, and Shri Swapnil Kshirsagar. Members of the Department of Microbiology, including Mrs. Sanika Phadnis, Ms. Swaragi Nimbalkar, Dr. Ashlesha, Dr. Vibhuti, Dr. Israr, Dr. Shreyas, Dr. Shivraj, Dr. Aniruddha, Ms. Shrutika, Ms. Samartha, Makarand, Ms. Akshata, Ms. Anuja, Siddhant, and other staff, were also present on the occasion. The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered on behalf of the Department of Microbiology by Dr. Ramtirthkar and Dr. Yogendra Shelke.
