APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 01/05/2025
For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (01-05-2025).
Mains Question (GS Paper 2 – Governance | Health | Innovation)
“The transfer of indigenous CRISPR-based TB diagnostic technology by ICMR represents a turning point in India’s battle against tuberculosis. Discuss the significance of this innovation for public health, especially in underserved regions.”
Introduction
Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of India’s most persistent public health challenges, accounting for nearly 25% of the global TB burden. The recent move by ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC), Dibrugarh, to commercialize a CRISPR-based TB detection system marks a bold step toward tech-led health equity in the fight for a “TB Mukt Bharat” by 2025.
Why CRISPR-Based TB Diagnostics Matter
| Parameter | Benefit |
| Speed | Delivers results within 30–60 minutes |
| Accuracy | High sensitivity & specificity for early detection |
| Portability | Suitable for rural/tribal areas lacking advanced labs |
| Affordability | Low-cost alternative to GeneXpert and culture-based methods |
Public Health Significance
- Decentralized Diagnosis
- Ensures point-of-care testing, crucial in the Northeast and remote tribal belts
- Bridges urban-rural diagnostic divide
- Enables Early Treatment
- Prevents disease transmission and reduces mortality
- Reduces loss to follow-up due to rapid results
- Make in India & Health Sovereignty
- Reduces dependence on imported diagnostic kits
- Builds R&D capacity in Tier-2 cities like Dibrugarh
- Supports National TB Elimination Mission (2025)
- Complements initiatives like Ni-Kshay, Nikshay Mitra, and free drug regimens
Challenges to Address
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Logistics | Cold chain for reagents, trained personnel for test handling |
| Scale & Speed | Slow integration into government health systems |
| Affordability Concerns | Risk of pricing out diagnostics if monopolized |
| Monitoring & Evaluation | Need for digital integration with Ni-Kshay for tracking |
Policy & Institutional Support Needed
- Ayushman Bharat Health & Wellness Centres (HWCs) can serve as distribution and testing hubs
- Public-Private Partnerships for manufacturing, training, and deployment
- Integration with Digital Health Stack under National Health Mission
- Funding via CSR and Health Innovation Funds to accelerate adoption in underserved districts
Way Forward
- 🧑⚕️ Train ASHA & ANM workers to collect and handle TB samples
- 🛰️ Use of telemedicine to link patients in remote areas with doctors
- 📊 Real-time data dashboard for test outcomes and coverage gaps
- 🔬 Expand use of CRISPR to other diseases (e.g., dengue, malaria) in endemic regions
Conclusion
The CRISPR-based TB diagnostic system is a game-changer for India’s public health infrastructure—particularly for underserved populations in the Northeast. If scaled equitably and supported by robust policy and funding, it can turn India’s TB elimination dream into a data-driven, tech-enabled reality.
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