AP govt unveils AI app for child health screening

Visakhapatnam: The govt has introduced a special AI-based application called 'Navachetana' to assess the overall development and health status of children more effectively. Using data collected through Anganwadi centres, the app evaluates development of children through three methods. These include direct observation of their physical and mental condition, interaction with parents or caregivers to gather information, and the use of specially designed kits to assess abilities and developmental capacities.

Officials said children in the 0 to 6 years age group have been divided into nine stages under the programme. Based on the age, questionnaires are automatically generated within the app. Through this process, 21 types of disabilities and developmental disorders can be identified at an early stage, enabling immediate referral for necessary medical services.

A one-day training programme on the AI-based screening initiative was conducted on Tuesday in Viziangaram for medical officers, CDPOs and supervisors. The training, organised under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), focused on the early identification of growth deficiencies, nutritional status, developmental milestones and other health-related issues among children aged between 0 and 6 years. ICDS project director Balamani said the primary objective of the programme was to detect such issues at an early stage. During the meeting, training was provided by Dr Balasubrahmanyam, who had undergone ToT (training of trainers) training, along with CDPOs and PD trainers.