In a significant move to bolster forensic capabilities across India, the Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, has approved the Central Sector Scheme titled “National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES).” This initiative, proposed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, is poised to transform the forensic landscape of the country through substantial investments and infrastructure development.
What is the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme?
The NFIES aims to significantly enhance the forensic infrastructure nationwide by setting up off-campus laboratories of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) across all 28 states and Union Territories. This ambitious scheme seeks to address the existing gaps in forensic capabilities and improve the overall efficiency of forensic investigations in India.
Financial Outlay and Duration:
The scheme is backed by a substantial financial outlay of Rs. 2,254.43 crore, covering the period from 2024-25 to 2028-29. This investment will fund various components designed to advance forensic infrastructure and strengthen the capabilities of forensic institutions.
Key Components:
- Establishment of NFSU Campuses: New campuses of the National Forensic Sciences University will be established across the country to ensure widespread access to forensic education and training.
- Central Forensic Science Laboratories: New Central Forensic Science Laboratories will be set up to manage and process forensic cases more effectively, helping to reduce the backlog in existing laboratories.
- Enhancement of Existing NFSU Infrastructure: Upgrades will be made to the existing infrastructure at the Delhi campus of the NFSU to support its growing role in forensic science education and research.
Objectives:
The NFIES is designed to:
- Address Forensic Manpower Shortages: By expanding educational facilities and training programs, the scheme aims to tackle the shortage of skilled forensic professionals.
- Increase Laboratory Efficiency: Establishing new laboratories and upgrading existing ones will help manage the increased caseload and reduce pendency.
- Support New Criminal Laws: With the implementation of new criminal laws requiring forensic investigation for offenses carrying significant penalties, the scheme anticipates a surge in forensic workload.
- Achieve High Conviction Rates: The initiative supports the government’s goal of achieving a conviction rate exceeding 90% through enhanced forensic capabilities and trained professionals.
New Criminal Laws in India
Effective from July 1, 2024, the new criminal laws will overhaul the current legal framework:
- Indian Penal Code (IPC): Replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
- Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC): Replaced by the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
- Indian Evidence Act: Replaced by the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA).
These new laws will necessitate advanced forensic investigations, underscoring the need for enhanced forensic infrastructure and expertise.
National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU)
Established in 2009 and renamed in 2020, the NFSU is the world’s first university dedicated exclusively to forensic sciences. Located in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, the NFSU plays a crucial role in training forensic professionals and advancing forensic science research. It operates as an institution of national importance under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
The Role of Forensic Science
Forensic science employs scientific methods to investigate crimes and examine evidence that may be presented in court. It encompasses various disciplines, including fingerprint analysis, DNA profiling, and wildlife forensics, all crucial for the criminal justice system. Forensic scientists work to provide objective findings that aid in criminal investigations and ensure justice is served.
With the NFIES set to launch, India’s forensic infrastructure is on the brink of a major transformation, promising to enhance the quality and efficiency of forensic investigations nationwide.
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