The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, has partnered with the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) to develop an indigenous artificial intelligence (AI) tool aimed at enabling earlier detection of breast cancer among Indian women.

The collaboration involves a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two institutions. The AI system is being trained using Indian patient data, including different levels of breast density, to improve its suitability for the Indian population. The project is currently in the trial phase.

The technology is designed to analyse digital mammography images and identify abnormalities that could indicate breast cancer. Researchers are also working to expand the system to analyse 3D breast scans, or tomosynthesis, and ultrasound videos, potentially allowing real-time identification of hidden abnormalities and helping distinguish benign fluid-filled cysts from solid tumours.

According to PGI experts, breast cancer in Indian women can occur at a younger age and dense breast tissue can make conventional mammography more challenging. The proposed AI system is intended to provide an additional layer of analysis and a potential expert second opinion, which could help reduce false alarms and unnecessary biopsies.

The hardware supporting the system is a compact desktop-connected device, approximately 1.5 times the size of a standard 5×5-inch cube. PGI plans to use its extensive patient data covering different breast densities to further train and validate the technology.
Once developed and clinically validated, the “Make in India” AI solution is intended for deployment across healthcare centres to strengthen breast cancer screening.

Breast cancer remains a major health concern in India. The National Cancer Registry Programme estimated 2,21,757 breast cancer cases in India in 2022, making breast cancer one of the country’s leading cancer sites. The estimated lifetime cumulative risk of developing breast cancer among Indian women was approximately 1 in 29.

The collaboration comes as India increasingly explores AI-enabled cancer screening and diagnostics. In March 2026, the Government launched the Cancer AI & Technology Challenge (CATCH) Grant Programme under the IndiaAI Mission to support AI-based solutions across the cancer-care continuum, including screening and diagnostics.

The PGI-IIT Delhi initiative could therefore contribute to the development of population-specific AI tools aimed at improving the early detection and diagnostic assessment of breast cancer in India.