Shillong, June 24: The Health & Family Welfare Department of the Government of Meghalaya has been honoured with the prestigious SKOCH Award 2026 for its innovative project titled “Transforming Breast Cancer Screening in Meghalaya Using Artificial Intelligence.”
The award was presented on June 20 during the 108th SKOCH Summit – Public Policy Forum on “Regulatory Framework for Viksit Bharat” held at the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in New Delhi.
The award was received on behalf of the department by Dr. Carolinda Iangrai, Additional Director of Health Services (MCH & FW)-cum-State Nodal Officer, NP-NCD, NHM Meghalaya, and Tenneychell Khongrangjem, State Epidemiologist-cum-State Programme Officer, NP-NCD, NHM Meghalaya.
The initiative leverages artificial intelligence-based thermal screening technology to facilitate the early detection of breast cancer, particularly among women living in remote and underserved areas of the state. As part of Meghalaya’s efforts to strengthen preventive healthcare services, the programme combines community outreach, screening, referral, and follow-up mechanisms to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
According to the department, a total of 1,683 women have been screened under the pilot project so far, with high-risk cases identified and referred for further clinical evaluation.
The Health & Family Welfare Department dedicated the award to healthcare professionals, programme personnel, and frontline health workers whose commitment and efforts have contributed to the successful implementation of the initiative.
Reaffirming its commitment to improving healthcare delivery, the department stated that it will continue to promote innovative, evidence-based, and technology-driven interventions aimed at enhancing healthcare access, quality, and health outcomes across Meghalaya.
