A National Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop was held on July 3rd and 4th, 2025, in New Delhi, organized by the Global Coalition of TB Advocates (GCTA). This crucial initiative aimed to address significant gaps in diagnostic access and utilization for HIV, Tuberculosis (TB), and related infections across India.

The workshop highlighted persistent challenges, including:

• • Delays and unavailability of existing diagnostics like CBNAAT, with molecular test results often taking "3-4 weeks".
• • High out-of-pocket costs for essential tests not covered by programs.
• • Systemic issues like "untrained staff, broken machines, and long travel" for patients.
• • Low community awareness, misinformation, and stigma.

As the affected community, participants discussed point-of-care (POC) diagnostics and evaluated the different tools available. A key focus was Molbio’s Truenat platform, described as a “breakthrough in TB care” and a “game changer at the point of care.” Truenat is portable, battery-operated, and provides rapid, accurate detection for around 50 different tests, including HIV viral load and various STIs, with plans to expand to 64 pathogens for antimicrobial resistance. Its simplicity helps overcome the traditional testing delay of “3–4 weeks.”

The workshop brought together 27 NGO and Network leaders from 17 Indian states, providing them with structured advocacy training. Participants learned an eight-step methodical approach and developed concrete regional action plans to improve access to POC diagnostics.

Key outcomes included:

• • The drafting of a community statement advocating for fair and equitable access to modern tests like Truenat. The statement emphasizes treating communities as partners, integrating POC diagnostics, addressing stigma, and ensuring uninterrupted access to medicines. This document will be submitted to NACO, NTEP, and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
• • A concrete roadmap for regional expansion, with three follow-up workshops planned in the South, North, and Western regions to ensure sustained impact.

Overall,For the first time, the workshop brought together TB, HIV, and Hepatitis C leaders to share experiences and enhance their understanding of molecular POC diagnostics and advocacy strategies. This collective effort laid a strong foundation for equitable access to essential health services.