May 28, 2021 Cheaper, quicker technique makes sample collection easier in rural and tribal areas Virology researchers at the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, a Council of Scientific and Industrial Research lab based in Nagpur, (CSIR-NEERI) have developed a saline gargle-based RTPCR test which is quicker, cheaper and non-invasive. The technique, which has been approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research, is significant because it makes sample collection easier in rural and inaccessible tribal areas, an official statement said on Friday. “Swab collection method requires time. Moreover, since it is an invasive technique, it is a bit uncomfortable for patients. The transport of the sample to the collection centre is time consuming. On the other hand, the saline gargle RT-PCR method is instant, comfortable and patient-friendly. Sampling is done instantly and results will be generated within 3 hours,” said Krishna Khairnar, senior scientist at the environmental virology cell in CSIR-NEERI.