Do you ever watch crime thrillers and ask yourself how investigators find the answers to the toughest crimes? What causes a person to commit a crime in the first place? If reading about these questions gets you excited, a career in criminology could be ideal for you. Criminology is more than solving criminal cases; it means learning about society, aiding people and making the nation a safer environment. That being said, what must you do to rise above all and be known as the top criminologist? Continue reading to find out.

Understanding the Role of a Criminologists

A criminologist is much like a doctor in his work on society’s issues. Much like how a doctor deals with diseases, a criminologist looks into the problem of crime by seeing what causes it, how it spreads, and possible ways to curb it. This means you will connect with police, courts, researchers and, at times, with those who have broken the law to understand the issue and look for solutions.

India needs criminologists in a variety of places, such as police departments, research labs, universities, NGOs and big companies. What you do might change laws, make police work better or assist people and communities affected by crime.

Steps To  Be a Criminologist in India

Step 1: Decide on what School Subjects are Best for You

For those who are still studying (in 10+2), Sociology, Psychology, Political Science and even fundamental Law will be valuable subjects. They allow you to find out about human thoughts and how society operates which forms the basis of criminology.

Step 2:Pick the best college course.

You will have to earn a bachelor’s degree after finishing high school. Criminology, Sociology, Psychology or Law are some of the courses available for B.A. or B.Sc. in India. 

Step 3: Take Forensic Science Entrance test

To get admission in a good college, you need to take their entrance test or a national-level entrance test. This can be a daunting process because finding and passing the appropriate exam for the college to which you want to apply is not easy. However, AIFSET (All India Forensic Science Entrance Test) has made it easier by allowing aspirants to take one exam and be eligible for admission at 170+ top private universities in India.   

Step 4: Gain Expertise by Focusing on a Specific Area

For a clear advantage, consider enrolling in a master’s degree program in Criminology or a similar area. Going for a Ph.D. might be a good choice if you enjoy researching or if you wish to be a teacher. You can also choose short-term courses on forensic science, cybercrime or digital forensics, those add something extra that can impress employers.

The skills you must have

Being skilled in criminology is just like being an experienced driver, you follow the rules and prepare for anything unexpected on the way. There are a few key skills that you should have if you aspire to be a criminologist in India:

  1. Analytical Thinking: It is important to understand how everything comes together, how the dots are connecting, and why something was done in a certain way. 
  2. Communication: Reports will be your main task, but you may also talk to people affected and give testimony in court. Being able to communicate well keeps you ahead.
  3. Tech: Crime has moved into the digital world. It is just as important to know about cybercrime and digital investigation tools as to know how a smartphone works nowadays.
  4. Ethics and Integrity: As an author of a cricket report, just like a referee at a game, you have to behave honestly and impartially.
  5. Attention to Detail: A case can be solved by something as small as a fingerprint or a phone record.

The real experience of knowledge comes from working and not just by studying the books. They help you get ready for your professional life. You should try to complete an internship with a police force, a forensic lab, an NGO or legal aid groups. You may learn how academic theory applies to the work environment and experience what happens at the job.

Cybercrime and technology in India

As there are more cybercrimes in India, criminology is shifting and developing swiftly. Single-handedly in 2025, cybercriminals in India are anticipated to rob companies of ₹20,000 crore, where brand name scams are expected to reach ₹9,000 crore. The main impact is felt by banking and financial services which could experience losses of more than ₹8,000 crore, while both the retail and e-commerce sectors are projected to lose around ₹5,800 crore.

According to estimates, there will be more than 25 lakh cybercrime complaints by the end of the year, of which 5 lakh concern brand impersonation. There are many digital risks: India recorded over 369 million cases of malware and 702 new cyber threats per minute on their endpoints. Healthcare, hospitality and banking sectors are at the highest risk of cyberattacks.

What factors are responsible for its rapid rise? 

Malware, ransomware, and complex AI-powered scams are being used by attackers to target businesses and their users via cloud and social platforms. According to the survey, three-fourths (62%) of cyber incidents are found in the cloud, proving that digital progress is bringing new security issues. So, current criminologists have to be competent in investigative methods and technology, as well as understanding people’s behaviors and the field of cybersecurity.

Today’s aspiring criminologists should give as much importance to cyber risk as they do to criminal psychology. The success of crime-fighting in India will rest on experts who connect law, technology and society which makes this a rewarding area to enter. 

Being part of social organizations can show you how crime powerfully affects members of a community, their families and their youngsters. Try to be involved in research by joining projects or look for opportunities to publish in scientific journals. This step can strengthen your CV and let you meet people working in the field.

Career Options After B.sc/  M.sc in Criminology 

More criminologists are needed in India. You can explore the following options for your career:

  • Criminologist: Examine patterns in crime, provide police and government with helpful advice.
  • Forensic Science Technicians: Test and analyze different pieces of evidence in a laboratory setting.
  • Detective/Investigator: Support the police or private companies in solving cases.
  • Criminal Lawyer:Use your knowledge to fight cases and be a part of justice system.
  • Lecturers and professors: Help the next generation learn.
  • Social Worker: Offer aid to the victims and help offenders return to society.

The typical starting salary for first-time employees is between ₹3 and ₹5 lakh every year. After gaining experience and choosing a specialty, you may earn over ₹10 lakh each year. Specialists or consultants are sometimes paid much more, especially when they work with important international organizations or think tanks.

The Way to Outshine the Competition

  1. Gaining experience outside the classroom matters a lot.
  2. Go to seminars, join organisations in your field and get a mentor.
  3. Because laws, crime trends and technology develop fast, you should continue to learn.
  4. Post your work and share it during academic conferences.
  5. Try to obtain a certificate in cybercrime, forensic psychology or data analysis for added benefits.

Frequently asked questions 

1. Is having a legal degree needed to pursue a career in criminology?

Still, understanding legal rules is useful. Criminology looks at crime from every viewpoint, including social, psychological and legal.

2. Is it possible for an Indian degree holder to work overseas?

Possibly, as in some countries, you’ll need extra certifications.

3. Is criminology a field with demand in India?

Absolutely! Due to an increase in cybercrime, financial crimes and social matters, the need is increasing in both government agencies and private industries.

4.What amount of income can I achieve?

Freshers make about 3–5 lakh rupees per year and with additional experience and skills, you may earn a lot more.

Tips and secrets from the top professionals in criminology

  • Wonder About Things: Try to learn more by always experiencing the reason behind them.
  • Remain Honest and Fair: Your choices can influence many people, so make good decisions.
  • Use Technology: Take time to understand digital forensics and how to investigate cybercrimes.
  • Be Clear: In presentations or courtroom discussions, your message needs to be easy to understand.
  • Continue Learning: Being a criminologist means never stopping your education.

Now Is the Time to Get Started

Working towards being known as a top criminologist in India takes time and effort, like training for a marathon, not a race that lasts seconds. Being patient, willing to work hard and truly caring about society is needed. Additionally, if you work on the right areas, learn new things and don’t lose hope, you will achieve a lot. If you wish to investigate crimes, assist crime victims or create new policies, the field of criminology is accessible to you.

So, if you are passionate about being a criminologist or an expert in this field, you can start making a difference in crime and justice by jumping in as an active member, not as an observer. Start the process today, and you may be surprised by what you learn. You could end up being a star in the field of Indian criminology. Take AIFSET today to start your journey. 

You must have watched series and movies or have read books in which the protagonist is at times drunk but is a witness and ends up getting the criminal caught. However, is it true in the real world? Can a drunk witness help catch the criminal? Can their memory be trusted? The research says memory reliability is a spectrum, not an absolute. 

Forensic experts, forensic psychologists, investigators, and police have a major role to play when alcohol is involved. Because alcohol can impact memory, trusting the drunk witness is not a plausible approach. 

Does Drinking Affect How Well We Remember Things?

University of Portsmouth researchers found out in 2024 what happens to face memory when someone drinks alcohol. Some of the people were given alcohol, while others did not drink anything and then they all viewed videos of unfamiliar people. The following day, each person was asked to explain how those faces seemed.

People in the sober group were much better at remembering where the key facial features of eyes, nose and mouth were. Among drinking subjects, many said that their main memory was of the way a person looked, such as their hairstyle or facial features. Why? Since alcohol limits how much we pay attention, it makes us miss the detailed elements and only notice big details. It makes it hard to see beyond what is directly in front.

Crimes in India Involving Drunk Witnesses

Police reports show that many crimes happen close to areas that sell alcohol. This means that witnesses were possibly intoxicated while witnessing the event. Law enforcement needs to keep  in mind that witnesses may describe people based on general details rather than specific points. Because there have been previous cases in India where an intoxicated person provided a statement that resulted in arrests, the demand for forensic psychologists has increased. 

According to our research, people who are drunk can help catch the culprit, but only if drunk witness reliability is carefully evaluated. Depending on the amount of alcohol consumed by the witness and their capacity to hold it are also the deciding factors of whether their memory can be trusted.  

Eyewitness testimony in forensic psychology

Authorities and forensic experts in India are aware that witnesses under the influence can sometimes give inaccurate descriptions. So, they use more than one person’s memory instead of trusting just one person. Statements from witnesses are matched with footage from CCTV, evidence found through forensics and sometimes additional replays from several witnesses to obtain a clearer view.

How the interview is conducted is also important. Officers trained in forensic psychology in India ask questions carefully to avoid confusing or leading a witness, especially if alcohol was consumed by the witness. Forensic experts have skills to adjust the confused memories of a drunken witness and ask the right questions. They look at the situation the witness was in, how much alcohol they had and what was going on around them, rather than ignoring their story.

Forensic psychologists frequently assist police in assessing if the witness’s statements are reliable. Some of their techniques include simple recall tests and noting whether subjects appear confused or suggestible. Body language and emotional displays are carefully observed by professionals because they may indicate if a person’s memory is being affected.

Law enforcement in India is using voice analysis and timeline mapping with digital tools to check a drunk person’s memory against other data and physical findings. By using this layered process, the real facts are separated, so even an eyewitness alcohol memory gets considered scientifically without being ignored.

Through the combination of psychology, technology and typical investigation, forensic teams ensure that all evidence, even from a tipsy person, goes where it belongs. These forensic science experts with their skills dictate drunk witness reliability, which is needed for serving justice.   

What to Do if You Are A Drunk Witness? 

If a crime or an important incident catches your eye, always inform the police about it. However, you need to inform them from the start whether you were drunk.

Additionally, even if a drunk witness forgets details, they can give investigators some useful evidence. With help from modern techniques of forensic psychology and new ways detectives investigate, key details are likely to be spotted. 

In summary, although drinking affects memory, it doesn’t prevent a witness from providing useful information. However, completely considering or rejecting the statement of a drunk witness are both wrong approaches when the aim is to serve justice.

What before needed years and a lot of investment is now handled quickly and easily by labs everywhere. Next-generation sequencing is making a huge difference in science and is reshaping the future for forensic science, medicine, farming and exploring outer space. No matter if you’re just starting out or you have much experience, learning about NGS by 2025 is unavoidably important.

What is Next-Generation Sequencing?

With NGS, scientists are capable of reading through millions of DNA or RNA fragments all at once. Previously, Sanger sequencing was limited to one fragment at a time, whereas NGS is able to sequence complete genomes or just the areas required in only a single run and give us huge data volumes faster and much more affordably. In recent years, it has become much less expensive to sequence the whole genome, dropping by more than $100 million since 2001.

What Benefits Do You Get by Knowing About NGS?

NGS is no longer only for geneticists or biotechnologists to use. It has an effect in every area of society:

  • Healthcare: NGS is helping doctors customize your treatment by using information from your genes. For oncology, sequencing helps find the specific mutations behind a patient’s cancer and gives doctors the information they need to choose better treatments.
  • Infectious Disease: NGS allowed scientists to quickly find and monitor new viral mutations at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and similar recent outbreaks.
  • Agriculture: NGS is helping Indian researchers make crops resistant to climate change and find plant infections quickly which supports our food supply.
  • Forensics & Environmental Science: Because of NGS, crime scene investigation and biodiversity research now offer greater accuracy and work much faster than before.

How Is NGS Performed?

To start, DNA or RNA is taken from the sample, cut into smaller pieces and adapters are glued to both ends. After that, the fragments are transferred to a sequencing tool such as Illumina, Thermo Fisher or Oxford Nanopore and millions of competitive sequences are recorded using chemistry and optics at the same time. Data collected in this way is analyzed with AI help which allows bioinformatics scientists to spot changes in genes or markers for diseases and sometimes even identify new species.

How is NGS Helping Forensic Investigation In India?

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is helping forensic investigators in India get clearer details from even the most complicated crime scene samples. With NGS, multiple genetic markers such as STRs, SNPs, mitochondrial DNA and DNA from animals or microbes can all be assessed at once, giving a much larger and more detailed genetic result from only one analysis. Afforded by high-throughput technology, evidence analysis in India’s forensic cases is better because the samples often suffer from environmental threats or are run short. 

Forensic labs in India use NGS to achieve better identification of people, figure out a person’s ancestry, anticipate physical details and address cases involving twins or old, unsolved crimes that were previously unsolvable. Though the process of adopting NGS is still growing, due to reasons like expensive and specialized instruments and training, it is helping forensic investigations in India by being faster, more careful and affordable.

What Awaits NGS in 2025?

Advances in NGS are coming about extremely quickly. These are the key things you should know about this year:

  • Artificial intelligence has become integrated in NGS, helping to correct errors automatically, point out disease risks and speed up drug finding. Applications of AI using huge genomic sequencing results are aiding in making more accurate diagnoses, with results seen in Alzheimer’s and cancer cases.
  • Combining different types of sequencing is helpful for getting accurate and affordable outcomes, especially to spot the big changes known as large structural variants in cancer genetics. 
  • With handheld devices like MiniION from Oxford Nanopore, it is possible to collect DNA data anywhere, including in the rainforest or far from civilization. 
  • Thanks to systems such as Roche’s SBX, analysis takes less time and can now be done more easily in any setting, whether it’s for research or clinical work.

What Makes NGS Important for Those Interested in and Working in Genomics?

NGS is helping students discover exciting new opportunities in genomics, data science, healthcare, forensic science, agriculture and biotechnology. There is great demand for NGS expertise and the Indian genomics market is likely to grow by over 18% each year until 2030. Professionals who know how to use NGS can be ahead of the curve by introducing new medicines, improving crops or advancing personalized medicine.

Next-Generation Sequencing has moved from futuristic ideas to become a reality today that makes possible many advances touching every area of our lives. Thanks to NGS, science is advancing in rare disease diagnosis, infectious disease treatment and addressing food security. For anyone motivated by forensic science, healthcare or technology, now is an excellent moment to get involved with NGS. The future is being sequenced, make sure you aren’t left behind.

Crime scenes have always seemed mysterious; however, nowadays, investigators rely on technology that looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie. In India, the police are now using laser scanners and digital models instead of measuring tapes and sketchbooks to record every aspect of a crime scene in three dimensions. Not only is this new technology changing collection methods for evidence, but it is also opening unique career options for those who are interested in science, technology and justice. Let’s understand what 3D crime scene reconstruction involves and how it’s helping to transform forensic science.

What Is the Meaning of 3D Crime Scene Reconstruction?

3D Crime Scene Reconstruction is a method of creating the crime scene in 3D to understand it from all possible perspectives. Advanced technologies such as laser scanners, photogrammetry, drones and digital modelling software are used to develop detailed and realistic environments of crime scenes that can be looked at from any angle. Unlike regular photographs taken from two angles or quick sketches, these models detail everything so investigators can examine the scene over again and look at important evidence from various perspectives.

How is it used in India?

This technology is rapidly being introduced into Indian law enforcement agencies. Recently, the Agra Police introduced the 3D & Drone-Based Crime Scene Management System (3DD-CSMS) that will make use of LiDAR (light detection and ranging), drones and VR to capture crime scenes digitally. The system is being rolled out in 75 districts in Uttar Pradesh, following a growing national pattern.

Leading forensic scientists like Dr. Satendra Kumar highlight that 3D modeling has become an essential component of recent investigations since it speeds up work and helps keep evidence intact for upcoming court proceedings. He thinks that these techniques are bringing traditional and future forensics together.

Why Does It Matter?

  1. Greater Accuracy: With 3D reconstructions, the scene is accurately and faithfully captured and this ensures that all proof is taken notice of.
  2. Stronger Evidence Preservation: Since digital models are saved and can be studied again, they are precious for handling cases that last a long time.
  3. Courtroom Impact: Taking a look at crime scenes in 3D allows both judges and juries to better understand the case and improve the accuracy of what experts say.
  4. AI integration: AI is being applied to look at 3D data, spot patterns and even speed up and improve parts of the reconstruction project.

Which Skills Do Students Require?

Anyone wanting to succeed here must work on both technical and forensic abilities:

  • Experience in both 3D laser scanning and photogrammetry
  • Forming models with Blender or RealityCapture is essential for archaeological purposes.
  • Learning about the laws and ethical principles for digital evidence
  • Skill in using these methods when presenting in a court environment

Now there are trainings in India where you can work directly with these tools. One example is that these programs prepare students to use scanning devices, process digital documents and build reconstructions ready for a courtroom in only one month. 

What Are the Job Opportunities in 3D Crime Scene Reconstruction?

As 3D reconstruction becomes more accessible, more opportunities in forensic science are open to those who graduated from India’s forensic science programs. Students who have these skills are pursuing roles in government labs and police departments and are also being approached by private investigators, law offices, academic institutions and research groups.

You can find job openings for “Crime Scene Investigator”, “Crime Laboratory Analyst”, and “Field Investigator” today, and their salaries range from ₹3 to ₹8 lakh per annum, depending on experience and training. Also, firms working in computer vision, robotics, and 3D modelling post openings for 3D SLAM computer vision engineers, 3D generalists/animators, and research assistants, and experienced workers may earn annual salaries between ₹10-20 lakh.

Because artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and advanced photogrammetry are now part of the field, there are more innovative specialities and areas of research appearing, opening new job opportunities. Thanks to programs run by the National Forensic Sciences University, students now have many opportunities to practice and follow new developments. 

Insights from Indian Forensic Experts

Educators and professionals working in Indian forensic science welcome the use of 3D technologies. An example is National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) which often runs training events and summits on virtual autopsy and 3D forensic technology along with other trending programs, since these fields are gaining importance in today’s investigations. At these events, experts discuss why it is important to keep learning and use digital evidence ethically as things develop in both technology and the law.

Are private firms offering better opportunities than government labs for 3D forensic experts?

Private firms and government labs both offer valuable opportunities for 3D forensic experts, but the nature and advantages of each differ:

Government Labs:

  1. Government testing laboratories in India are very busy and mostly deal with digital crimes, document investigations and DNA analysis.
  2. They give employees job stability, a clear path for growth and many training options.
  3. Expert scientists who work in government labs learn a great deal about actual casework which helps them look credible and build their confidence.
  4. There can be many identical cases in investigations, but that’s important for gaining experience.

Private Firms:

  1. There is a growing number of private forensic labs and services in India, mainly in questioned document analysis, digital forensics and 3D modeling, which is creating more job vacancies.
  2. Since the private sector often values new ideas and is fast to accept change, individuals there have the chance to use innovative methods and adapt to the latest tech more swiftly.
  3. Many private companies allow specialists and experienced workers to earn more and they usually offer flexible work positions such as consulting or freelancing.
  4. Most of the time, an expert needs a good deal of experience, a solid network within the field and regular experience giving expert testimony to be recognized in private practice.

Most experts say that new forensic scientists should start out in government labs to get basic skills and understand casework, then move to the private sector where they can advance. If you want to gain new skills and opportunities through innovation, you will discover that the private sector is your best choice, while government labs are the best place to find organized training and assured job protection.

Private companies can help 3D forensic experts receive better job prospects, good pay and adaptable hours, mainly if they are already experienced. Yet, the best way for students to begin their electrical engineering studies is with government lab training and experience. It is usually the best approach to use what each sector has to offer across different periods in your professional journey. 

Ultimately, anyone who wants to study technology and its impact on criminal justice may find 3D crime scene reconstruction to be a bright career option. Take AIFSET Entrance Exam if you are keen about becoming a part of a good cause field and wish to have a successful career. For free career consultation, contact us today at https://aifset.com/ or 08035018480

Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, is helping to make changes in the way crime is tackled in the state. Thanks to better forensic labs and new equipment, detectives now have more evidence to arrest previously hard-to-catch criminals such as members of mafia groups.

Before 2017, UP had forensic labs only in the major cities of Lucknow, Varanasi, Agra and Ghaziabad. As a result, it was more challenging for police in different areas to get access to scientific assistance promptly. Since that time, the government has included 8 additional labs in Jhansi, Kannauj, Prayagraj, Gorakhpur, Bareilly, Gonda, Aligarh and Moradabad. Today, there are 12 labs across the state carrying out these tests.

Still, there’s more to this topic than just these examples. Construction is underway for six more labs in Ayodhya, Bareilly, Banda, Azamgarh, Mirzapur and Saharanpur. The main purpose is to ensure that every part of the UP community receives quick and accurate forensic help. Making this technology available allows cases to be resolved faster and makes it easier to catch criminals.

What It Means: Judgments Are Made Swiftly and the Guilty Are Convicted

This push towards forensic testing has been very successful. Forensic evidence has helped solve more than 75,000 criminal cases over the past eight years. It reflects how science is making it much easier to find those who have committed crimes, compared to previous times.

Now, with the new digital technology of forensic science, mafia leaders and  criminals who got away after committing crimes are being prosecuted for their crimes. Owing to dependable forensic evidence, judges can easily convict offenders and there is less chance of them being acquitted for technicalities.

Using Fingerprint Technology Nationwide

Uttar Pradesh is growing its science labs and is at the forefront of fingerprint innovations nationwide. More than 4.14 lakh fingerprints have been stored in NAFIS which helps police identify criminals from fingerprints left at crime scenes.

Moving faster through investigations is possible, thanks to all the fingerprints enrolled. As soon as the police detect a fingerprint at a crime scene, they compare it to NAFIS for possible matches. Having this capability in real time has greatly improved methods of detecting and preventing crimes. Moreover, there are new technologies adopted to analyze biological samples as per the latest standards like BNS, BNSS, and BSA-2023, leading to enhanced validity and reliability of evidence.

Forensic Labs Aren’t Enough

However, these labs alone aren’t enough; there is a keen requirement for skilled professionals. The government in Uttar Pradesh has put a lot of effort into educating its police and forensic team on using these tools. Officers get trained in modern techniques to gather and keep evidence safe and lab technicians receive training on how to examine samples correctly and speedily. Because of this skill training, professionals ensure that evidence from forensic investigation meets the strict criteria in court. Law enforcement feels more secure that scientific proof can support what they do during investigations and in the courts.

A Strategy Based on Science with a Zero-Tolerance Rule

The Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath, said that a strong policy against crime depends on having the police equipped with the latest scientific tools. He believes justice should deliver its findings promptly and depends on real evidence. Our forensic labs support police in bringing guilty people to court.

The government is pursuing this approach by revising forensic science and uniting it with law enforcement tasks. Uttar Pradesh is making it harder for criminals to remain unpunished by using strong enforcement and new technological tools.

Winning the Trust of the Public by Being Transparent and Fast

Trust in both the police and the judicial system has improved because of the forensic revolution. If cases are resolved fast and justly based on science, people are more certain that they will get justice.

In recent years, evidence found during investigations has played an important part in the prosecution of murder, rape, theft and cybercrime. Using evidence in policing is making it easier to stop corruption and influence, so that legal procedures are now more open and believable.

The Future Is Bright With Science and Technology in the Lead

Uttar Pradesh’s achievements demonstrate that modern methods in forensics and technology can greatly boost crime investigation. The state is showing others how to move forward by growing labs, adopting modern tools and training staff.

With more laboratories becoming available and better equipment, the process of solving crimes for the police will improve. Because of this, it’s easier for criminals to get caught and communities can be safer.

Uttar Pradesh is demonstrating how science and technology help in the struggle against crime. This is a cue for all the other states in India to follow the lead of UP and make their state safer.

Many students in India are choosing to pursue careers in crime investigation, law enforcement and legal studies because the field of forensic science is growing rapidly. The main idea in forensic science is evidence which is collected at crime scenes and helps uncover the truth and obtain justice. Forensic science enthusiasts need to understand the various kinds of evidence.

What Is Forensic Evidence?

Anything gathered at a crime site or from a criminal case that must be examined scientifically using forensics is referred to as forensic evidence. It gives investigators information to recreate what has happened, identify those involved and use them in court. 

There are two major categories of evidence in the field of forensic science.

  • Tangible Things: Examples include fingerprints, blood and weapons.
  • Testimonial Evidence: Evidence provided by witnesses or people involved in the incident.

Physical evidence is usually believed to be more dependable than testimonial evidence, as it is tested using science.

Types of Forensic Evidence

  1. Biological Evidence

Biological evidence usually consists of substances such as blood, saliva, hair, skin cells and other bodily fluids from living creatures. Biological evidence” in India has been used with DNA profiling to solve more cases by precisely spotting suspects or victims. Thanks to DNA analysis, many old and incorrectly solved cases have been resolved and innocent people have been set free.

  1. Trace Evidence

These are minuscule particles left behind while committing a crime. Here, we consider hair, clothes, soil, paint chips and glass as examples of fibres that can appear in a crime scene. These items may be tiny, but they could point to a suspect involved in the crime. Trace evidence in India is carefully studied by using microscopes and applying various chemicals in forensic labs.

  1. Fingerprint Evidence

No two individuals have the same fingerprints and they are still among the best ways to identify someone. Latent fingerprints left behind on hard surfaces are visible only when forensic specialists use specially designed powders or chemicals. India’s police departments store fingerprints to make it easier to find criminals.

  1. Digital Evidence

Since technology is advancing, digital evidence is now more important. Data collected can come from mobile phones, computers, emails, social media and GPS devices. They extract the relevant information to study how people involved in a crime kept in touch, what happened in sequence or the possible reasons behind it. Many investigations by cybercrime units in India are driven by digital evidence.

  1. Ballistics Evidence

It is used in cases related to firearms and ammunition. Gunshot experts use bullets, shell casings and traces of gunpowder residue to understand the weapon and how far it was from the victim when fired. These types of incidents often rely on this kind of evidence in the investigation.

What Are the Benefits of Teaching Evidence to Students?

Anyone in India who wants to pursue a career in forensic science or a similar field should learn about the types of evidence. It is used for:

  • Academic Preparation: Most forensic science entrance exam and courses include questions about evidence types.
  • Practical Skills: Forensic specialists must know how to handle and examine evidence accurately.
  • Career Awareness: Forensic professionals can work in analysis of DNA, fingerprints or electronic devices, among various fields.

Emerging Trends Shaping Forensic Evidence in India

  1. AI and Machine Learning are being integrated: Making the collection and testing of fingerprints and DNA more accurate by relying on technology.
  2. Blockchain for Secure Evidence: Retaining security over the samples and clear documentation of how they were managed.
  3. Forensic Nanotechnology: Using nanotechnology to detect very tiny bits of evidence found at crime scenes.
  4. Pre-ordaining a set process and accreditation: The use of ISO 17025 standards and NABL accreditation helps apply the same forensic practices across India.
  5. Sharing Knowledge and Skills: Programs designed by the government to teach law officials and the community about the worth of forensic science.

What Are the Procedures for Working with Forensic Evidence in India?

In India, special rules are used for gathering forensic evidence to make it acceptable as proof at trial. To avoid contamination, forensic investigators at crime scenes use protective equipment and proper methods of packing physical items. Following this, the evidence is sent to forensic laboratories that are accredited by the Central Forensic Science Laboratory or the state departments.

How Students Can Prepare Themselves for a Future in Forensic Science?

Students from India need to concentrate on the following points:

  1. Joining classes that are approved and recognized by prominent institutions.
  2. Having hands-on training as an intern at forensic labs or with the police.
  3. Updating oneself with the most recent methods used in digital forensics and biotechnology.
  4. Focusing on how to analyze, interpret and apply information from science, arguments and the law.
  5. Going to seminars and conferences, including AIFSS 2025, to both network with others in the field and pick up new knowledge.

Forensic science is now essential in India’s justice system, thanks to new laws and improved technologies. Since there are many types of forensic evidence such as DNA samples and digital files, students who want to use science in law have many paths to do so. When Indian students can handle and interpret forensic evidence, they can positively affect and improve the criminal justice system

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is fast becoming a major contributor to the field of forensic science and learning about it is essential for Indian aspiring forensic scientists to remain competitive. The role of eDNA in modern forensics and the role of forensic ecology in solving crimes has evolved to be a vital part of any forensic investigation. This is why forensic science students must be familiar with this topic because it mixes biology, ecology and technical advances.

What is Environmental DNA?

The term environmental DNA is used for very small genetic materials that drop from organisms and end up in water, the soil, air, dust or random environmental samples. The traces include skin, hair, mucus, feces, pollen or microbes. Instead of coming into contact with a spill, scientists can use eDNA to look for and determine the types of organisms through an environmental survey.

Why is eDNA Significant for Forensic Science?

Usually, forensic science uses DNA found in blood, saliva or hair that is on the suspect or victim. Still, eDNA introduces new ways for investigators to study wildlife and their habitat.

  • Correlate suspects or objects with crime scenes using special features in the environment
  • Try to identify where the soil or dust found on shoes or vehicles came from.
  • By checking environmental clues, it helps  in the investigation of wildlife crime.
  • Assist in figuring out how long the body was exposed to natural decomposition by studying the microorganisms that took part

For these reasons, eDNA plays an important role in forensic ecology, helping researchers understand the ways organisms influence crime scenes.

The Process of eDNA Forensics

Suppose that the soil on a suspect’s shoe has DNA from plants and microorganisms grouped together in a certain forest or area. If the crime scene’s environment matches the DNA found in the samples, it can prove that the suspect must have been there.

Furthermore, eDNA in airborne debris on clothing or vehicles may indicate where a suspect or object has been. Tests conducted at labs of MIT and Zurich University prove that this technique could bring improvements to forensic practices.

eDNA or environmental DNA, is now crucial for solving crimes in India’s wildlife.

The country encounters numerous problems related to wildlife crime, including illegal poaching and trade of animal body parts. The Centre for Wildlife Forensic Sciences in Tamil Nadu spotlights how these two approaches can be applied to stopping these crimes. Forensic scientists look at DNA found in hair, bones, skin or scat to identify species related to unlawful activities and help police.

This scientific strategy together with traditional morphology supports developing a genetic database for correct identification of species. Forensic ecology is necessary to safeguard the rich diversity of India’s wildlife and enforce relevant protective laws.

eDNA Forensics in India

There are lots of promises in using eDNA in forensics, though there are still a few things to solve:

  1. For test results to be reliable and accepted by courts, methods for sampling and analysis need to be standard.
  2. Identifying plants, microbes and animals in India needs good DNA databases to be effective.
  3. Teaching forensic officials about molecules and ecology will increase the benefits provided by eDNA for investigation.

Despite the problems in this area, there is a good chance for Indian aspiring forensic scientists to advance this multidisciplinary field by using environmental DNA with typical forensic approaches.

Forensic Science Aspirants Should Consider eDNA

The area of forensics is advancing faster than predicted, with environmental DNA leading the way. A strong background in eDNA forensics and forensic ecology can benefit individuals preparing for careers in forensic science.

  • Move ahead of only analyzing DNA and learn more about other analyzable molecules.
  • Allow people to pursue specific careers in investigating wildlife crime and environmental crimes
  • Aid in your ability to function as a respected member of various forensic teams.
  • Maintain your understanding of new advancements in forensics worldwide

Overall, using Environmental DNA is set to transform the future of Forensics. Environmental DNA allows forensic science to use the environment to detect, link and analyze various forms of evidence. Learning and mastering the field of eDNA forensics and forensic ecology is vital for Indian forensics students who wish to deal with crimes connected to humans, wildlife and nature. Building a career in this by being a master of eDNA shall allow you to support a fair and scientific justice system that respects the environment in India. 

Note: If you are skeptical about your forensic science career path, feel free to contact us and have a free career consultation at edinbox. 

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