In a first in Northeast, the Centre has launched a Mobile Covid testing facility in Mizoram.
The Mobile Diagnostic Laboratory (I-LAB), which has a bio-safety facility, is capable of performing both RT-PCR and ELISA tests.
It can also be utilised for testing other infectious diseases like TB, HIV, and therefore will remain relevant even in post-Covid times.
The Mobile Lab Technology will be rolled out gradually in other states of the Northeast as the region has unique climatic and topographical conditions.
The lab has been developed with support from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under Union Ministry of Science & Technology and is meant to provide Covid testing access to rural and remote parts of the Northeast, a release from the Ministry said.
Union Minister of State for Science & Technology, Jitendra Singh, launched the mobile testing facility with Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga joining the ceremony online.
Speaking on the occasion, Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga said that this will help bridge the gap in Covid testing in the border districts and remote areas lacking in RT-PCR testing facilities.