AI-based 'MIDAS' Project to Prove a Milestone in Digital Health: UHSR VC Dr. H.K. Agrawal

Rohtak, June 12, 2026: Dr. H.K. Agrawal, Vice-Chancellor of Pt. Bhagwat Dayal Sharma University of Health Sciences, expressed satisfaction with the achievements of the 'MIDAS' project, stating that this initiative by PGIDS, Rohtak, would prove to be a milestone in the field of digital health. This AI-based technology will help save thousands of lives by facilitating the timely detection of oral cancer in rural and remote areas. He noted that the burden of tobacco-related diseases is high in Haryana; therefore, this project holds special significance for the region.

Vice-Chancellor Dr. H.K. Agrawal congratulated Dr. Mala Kamboj, Head of the Department of Oral Pathology, and her entire team on PGIDS, Rohtak, being the only institution from North India selected for this national project. The Vice-Chancellor affirmed that the university would continue to provide all possible support for such innovations and research. Registrar Dr. Roop Singh, Director Dr. S.K. Singhal, and Principal Dr. Manu Rathi also congratulated Dr. Mala Kamboj on this achievement.

Dr. Mala Kamboj stated that the ICMR has sanctioned a total of ₹65,92,853 for the MIDAS project, with ₹47,47,415 already received during the first two years. The project is being conducted in collaboration with AIIMS, New Delhi, and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru. PGIDS, Rohtak, is the only institution from North India participating in this project. So far, more than 700 patients have been enrolled in the project. A database comprising thousands of high-quality clinical and histopathological images has been created; based on this, an AI-powered mobile app is being developed to instantly identify suspicious lesions and refer patients to specialists. This will prevent diagnostic delays and enable early commencement of treatment.

Dr. Mala Kamboj explained that under the project, comprehensive information regarding patients' consumption of tobacco, ‘gutka’, ‘bidis’, and cigarettes is collected, and they are educated about the associated risks. She noted that timely detection makes the treatment of oral cancer easier, more affordable, and more successful.

Dr. Mala stated that five research papers stemming from the MIDAS project have already been published in prestigious international journals, boasting impact factors of up to 5.5. The project's findings have been presented at numerous national conferences, where the work was honored with a 'Best Paper Award.' Additionally, a national-level open image dataset is being developed through this project, which will be made freely available to scientists for future AI research.

Vice-Chancellor Dr. H.K. Agrawal stated that over 177,000 new cases of oral cancer are reported in India annually. More than 70% of patients seek medical attention at an advanced stage. However, if detected early, the lives of 90% of patients can be saved. One should immediately consult a dental specialist if there is a mouth ulcer, a white or red patch, a burning sensation, or difficulty opening the mouth that persists for more than three weeks.