Experts questioned why the tender identifies TrueNat by name instead of inviting bids for generic TB molecular diagnostic kits meeting prescribed technical specifications. Key DifferencesThe issue is significant because an ICMR assessment published in February 2026 compared four molecular diagnostic tests — QuantiPlus, PathoDetect, TrueNat and GeneXpert — and found that all four fell within World Health Organization acceptability criteria for sensitivity and specificity. QuantiPlus was priced at ₹245 per test, compared with approximately ₹723 for PathoDetect, ₹834 for TrueNat and ₹1,388 for GeneXpert. “A procurement seeking a TB diagnostic kit could ordinarily specify the required technical parameters and allow manufacturers whose products meet those standards to compete on price and other relevant criteria. If the technology adds drug-resistance detection, it would be comparable with other NAAT technologies capable of diagnosing both TB and drug-resistant TB, they said.