National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme

Context:

Cabinet approves Central Sector Scheme “National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme” (N.F.l.E.S.)

Relevance:

GS II: Government Policies and Interventions

Approval of National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES):

Approval and Financial Outlay:

• The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the proposal by the Ministry of Home Affairs for the Central Sector Scheme “National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES)”.
• The total financial outlay for this scheme is Rs. 2254.43 crore, covering the period from 2024-25 to 2028-29.
• The funding for this scheme will come from the Ministry of Home Affairs’ budget.

Components of the Scheme:

1. Establishment of New Campuses of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU):
   • New NFSU campuses will be established across the country to enhance forensic education and training.
2. Establishment of Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSLs):
   • New CFSLs will be set up to increase the capacity for forensic examinations and reduce the backlog of cases.
3. Enhancement of Existing Infrastructure:
   • The existing infrastructure of the Delhi Campus of NFSU will be upgraded to improve facilities and resources for forensic education and research.

Objectives and Rationale:

• The scheme aims to create an effective and efficient criminal justice system by ensuring scientific and timely forensic examination of evidence.
• It highlights the necessity of high-quality, trained forensic professionals for the scientific examination of evidence, which is critical for an efficient criminal justice process.
• The scheme leverages advancements in technology and evolving crime methods to improve forensic capabilities.

Context and Importance:

• The new criminal laws mandate forensic investigation for offences punishable by 7 years or more, leading to an anticipated increase in the workload of forensic science laboratories.
• There is currently a significant shortage of trained forensic personnel in the Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs) across India.
• To meet the increased demand, there is a need for substantial investment and enhancement of national forensic infrastructure.

Expected Outcomes:

• The establishment of additional NFSU campuses and new CFSLs will address the shortage of trained forensic manpower.
• This expansion will help alleviate the backlog of forensic cases and reduce pendency in forensic laboratories.
• The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s goal of achieving a high conviction rate of over 90% by ensuring timely and accurate forensic examinations.