National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES)

The cabinet has approved the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES), a central sector scheme. Read here to learn more about the Forensic infrastructure in India.

India’s forensic infrastructure supports the criminal justice system by providing scientific analysis of evidence collected from crime scenes.

The infrastructure includes various laboratories, specialized agencies, and educational institutions dedicated to forensic science.

National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES)

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Home Affairs for the Central Sector Scheme “National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES) with a total financial outlay of Rs. 2254.43 crore during the period from 2024-25 to 2028-29.

The financial outlay of the Central Sector Scheme will be provisioned by the Ministry of Home Affairs from its budget.

The Cabinet has approved the following components under this Scheme:

1. Establishment of Campuses of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in the country.
2. Establishment of Central Forensic Science Laboratories in the country.
3. Enhancement of existing infrastructure of the Delhi Campus of the NFSU.

With the enactment of the New Criminal Laws which mandates forensic investigation for offences involving punishment of 7 years or more, a significant increase in the workload of forensic science laboratories is expected.

• Further, there is a significant shortage of trained forensic manpower in the Forensic Science Laboratories (FSL) in the country.
• To meet this heightened demand, significant investment and enhancement in national forensic infrastructure is imperative.
• The establishment of additional off-campuses of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) and new Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSLs) would address the shortage of trained forensic manpower, alleviate the caseload/pendency of forensic laboratories, and align with the Government of India’s goal of securing a high conviction rate of more than 90%.

Forensic Infrastructure in India

• Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSLs):
  • Managed by the Directorate of Forensic Science Services (DFSS) under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • CFSLs are located in major cities including Delhi, Chandigarh, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bhopal, Guwahati, and Pune.
  • They provide a range of forensic services including DNA analysis, toxicology, cyber forensics, and ballistic examinations.
• State Forensic Science Laboratories (SFSLs):
  • Each state has its forensic science laboratory which operates under the respective state government.
  • These laboratories handle forensic cases within their jurisdiction and provide support to local law enforcement agencies.
• Regional Forensic Science Laboratories (RFSLs):
  • Smaller laboratories that cater to specific regions within states reduce the load on SFSLs.
  • They provide quicker turnaround times for forensic analysis in regional cases.
• Specialized Forensic Institutes:
  • Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI): Houses a CFSL in New Delhi which specializes in high-profile cases and complex investigations.
  • National Investigation Agency (NIA): Has its forensic experts for investigating terrorism-related cases.
• Forensic Education and Training Institutions:
  • National Institute of Criminology and Forensic Science (NICFS): Offers training programs and courses in criminology and forensic science.
  • University Departments and Colleges: Several universities offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses in forensic science, contributing to the development of skilled professionals.
• Forensic Capabilities and Services:
  • DNA Profiling: Used in criminal identification, paternity disputes, and missing person cases.
  • Toxicology: Analysis of bodily fluids and tissues to detect the presence of toxins, drugs, and alcohol.
  • Ballistics: Examination of firearms, ammunition, and gunshot residues.
  • Questioned Documents: Analysis of handwriting, typewriting, and counterfeit documents.
  • Cyber Forensics: Investigation of digital devices and cybercrimes.
  • Fingerprint Analysis: Identification and comparison of fingerprint evidence.

Challenges in Forensic Infrastructure

• Resource Constraints:
  • Many forensic laboratories face a shortage of funding, which affects their ability to procure modern equipment and technology.
  • Staffing shortages and inadequate training for forensic experts are common issues.
• Backlog of Cases:
  • Due to the high volume of cases and limited resources, there is often a significant backlog in forensic laboratories, leading to delays in analysis and reporting.
• Standardization and Accreditation:
  • There is a need for standardization of procedures and accreditation of forensic laboratories to ensure consistency and reliability in forensic analysis.
• Interagency Coordination:
  • Effective coordination between law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, and the judicial system is essential but often lacking.
• Awareness and Training:
  • Law enforcement personnel and judiciary members require training to understand and effectively utilize forensic evidence.
• Technological Advancements:
  • Keeping pace with advancements in forensic science and technology is essential for accurate and timely analysis.

Developments and Initiatives

• National Forensic Science University (NFSU): Established in Gujarat to provide advanced education, training, and research in forensic sciences.
• National Forensic Sciences Academy: Proposed to train forensic experts and improve the quality of forensic investigations.
• Legislative Framework: Efforts to introduce and amend laws to incorporate forensic science as a critical component in the criminal justice system.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging collaborations between government agencies and private sector organizations to enhance forensic capabilities.
• Digital Forensics: Increased focus on developing capabilities to handle cybercrimes and digital evidence.
• Capacity Building Programs: Regular training programs and workshops for forensic experts, law enforcement personnel, and judicial officers.

Fields of Forensic Science

Conclusion

India’s forensic infrastructure is crucial for the effective functioning of its criminal justice system.

While significant progress has been made in establishing forensic laboratories and educational institutions, there are still challenges that need to be addressed.

Strengthening forensic capabilities through adequate funding, training, standardization, and technological upgrades is essential for the timely and accurate analysis of evidence, which ultimately contributes to the delivery of justice.

-Article by Swathi Satish