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India is soon moving on to an era where technology and statistics would shape the future of society. More and more people becoming conscious about quality and rights; it is social justice that has become more of a prime concern than ever before. Along with social justice and coordination between the government and other institutions for proper delivery, forensic science labs have come to be a part of social justice and social services. It is no longer merely a procedure but a part of overall processes that demand awareness about science and ethics.

Today, there is a clear demand for education, which goes beyond textbooks, being more relevant to equipping students with the capacity to deal with real-life situations. Forensic science is not a subject that acts as a means for people to make a living but a useful tool for improving truth and justice in the country. This is why forensic education in India has seen so much development in the past ten years.

As of 2010, it was reported that there were only nine universities in India that offered degrees in forensics. There were ten National Forensic Sciences Universities (NFSUs) established after 2009. Since 2020, there has been increased expenditure and number regarding this discipline. Also, there are more than 165 private universities and colleges conducting courses in forensic science.

Although the increase in the number of institutions has solved the issue in terms of availability, the truth remains that the situation on the ground still remains challenging. The vacancy rate above 40 percent in terms of scientific manpower, despite the fact that there are 26 forensic labs in India, creates an imbalance in education and the demand for the workforce.

In addressing this problem, there are three levels of solutions that the institutions can use. First, the trained students can be employed to undertake internships with the goal of addressing the labor gap that currently exists in the laboratories. Second, the trained graduates need to be hired with the aim of providing a long-term solution with regard to the problem. Third, the expertise of the retired forensic specialists can be utilized with the goal of providing stop gap solutions before the hiring of employees in the positions that have been sanctioned.

India presently has a total of 806 districts, state forensic science labs of 27, about 80 R-FSLs, and nine CFSLs. Due to the increased number of cases of crimes, cyber evidence, and complicated matters, a tremendous rise in the development of special institutions and labs is required in the present scenario, otherwise, it will be difficult to handle the burden on the justice delivery system.

Certain universities like Centurion University are also emerging as very good models of education by their emphasis on effective forensic training. Universities based on skills must have extensive collaboration with state police forces. By doing this, the gap that exists between universities and police forces can be reduced.

This would help the students tackle real-life cases in expert labs and police stations. The first-hand experience would also help equip them with competent skills. This would also help the police reap benefits from the well-equipped young minds. The police would then get to meet their forensic manpower needs in no time.

 The number The lack of qualified faculty members for forensic sciences is another major issue. To overcome this challenge, the university could employ PhD scholars or academicians belonging to their department, while scientists, doctors, or retired police officers could be appointed as visiting or adjunct faculty members. In addition to this, the development of faculty members for the younger faculty members of the university could also be required for improving the laboratory or research capabilities of the young faculty members. 

International collaboration or virtual labs can also play an equally vital role in such an endeavor. Such platforms can provide an opportunity to the student to have mentorship from someone who may have academic excellence along with experience in this area. The Road Ahead The future will translate to better opportunities for students interested in going beyond the normal degree program in terms of working on the practical understanding. The industries as well as the justice system need professionals with knowledge as well as practical understanding. This will impart strength to the students’ careers. It will also translate to imparting a renewed strength to the justice systems in India.

At a time when the concept of forensic science was only beginning to be known in Indian shores and, in fact, most laboratories remained dominated by men, Dr. Rukmani Krishnamurthy softly initiated a revolution. Today, she is remembered as a pioneer, known far and wide in Indian annals as the first lady forensic scientist of India.

Born in the year 1949 in the city of Nagpur, Dr. Krishnamurthy took up a career that few women knew even existed. Dr. Krishnamurthy joined the Directorate of Forensic Science Laboratories (DFSL), Mumbai in the year 1974, a period when the subject of forensic science was not widely known outside the police departments—and even more so when it came to a woman handling the job

Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Field

Dr. Krishnamurthy started with the same laboratory as the lone female in the forensic science laboratory. “What would the lady do in FSL?” was the sort of question she regularly encountered. Instead of backing away, she let science be the evidence.

She not only demonstrated her merit but even transformed the organizational culture with her dedication and leadership qualities. When she retired as Director of DFSL Maharashtra in 2008, nearly 20% of those in the forensic department were female—a radical turnaround for a sector otherwise closed to women.

Leading High-Profile Forensic Cases Across India

Over a distinguished career spanning three decades, Dr. Rukmani Krishnamurthy led and supervised forensic analysis in some of India’s most complex and sensitive criminal cases, including:

• The 1993 Mumbai serial bomb blasts, where her team’s forensic report was later praised by Interpol Lyon for its precision and scientific rigor
• The Matunga train fire (1976)
• The Joshi–Abhyankar serial murder case
• Numerous dowry death investigations
• The Neeraj Grover murder case, among others

Her work reinforced the idea that forensic evidence—not confessions or assumptions—must guide justice.

Transforming Forensic Science in India

Dr. Krishnamurthy is credited with modernizing Indian forensic science and aligning it with global best practices. Under her leadership, DFSL Maharashtra adopted cutting-edge investigative techniques, including:

• DNA profiling and testing
• Cyber forensics
• Brain fingerprinting
• Narco-analysis and lie detector tests
• Advanced document, voice, and video analysis

She was instrumental in establishing six world-class forensic laboratories in Maharashtra and played a key role in expanding forensic education and training in cities such as Mumbai, Nagpur, and Aurangabad—ensuring that the next generation of forensic scientists was both skilled and ethically grounded.

Transitioning from Public Service to Private Expertise: Helik Advisory Ltd

After retirement, Dr. Krishnamurthy continued her mission by founding Helik Advisory Ltd, an ISO-certified forensic and allied sciences organisation based in Mumbai. As Chairperson and CEO, she now provides expert forensic services to:

• Law enforcement agencies
• Judiciary and legal professionals
• Banks and financial institutions
• IT firms and corporates
• Educational institutions and the general public

Services Offered by Helik Advisory Ltd

Helik Advisory delivers comprehensive forensic solutions, including:

Forensic Laboratory Services

• Questioned document and handwriting examination
• Fingerprint analysis
• Digital and cyber forensics
• Voice and speaker identification
• Forensic video analysis

Allied Forensic Services

• Forensic psychology
• Social and preventive forensics (cyber safety, mental health awareness)
• Crime scene examination and evidence collection

Training, Research & Consulting

• Internships and professional training programs
• Research and technical advisory
• Corporate investigations and expert witness services

The organisation’s laboratories and methodologies are designed to match international standards comparable to the FBI, reinforcing India’s forensic credibility on a global stage.

Recognition, Research, and Lasting Legacy

Dr. Rukmani Krishnamurthy’s contributions have earned her more than 10 national and international awards, including Lifetime Achievement honours from the Government of India. She is also:

• A member of the Academic Council, National Forensic Science University (NFSU), Gujarat
• A PhD guide for forensic research scholars
• Author of two authoritative books on forensic science
• Contributor of 140+ research papers in national and international journals

A biopic currently in production, focusing on landmark cases such as the Mumbai blasts and the Telgi scam, further underscores her influence on India’s justice system.

Inspiring Women, Strengthening Justice Apart from being an accomplished scientist, the true legacy of Dr. Rukmani Krishnamurthy lies in the area of mentorship and advocacy. Renowned for having the keen scientific temperament and the strong conviction of the equality of all persons, she has motivated many women to take up the fields of forensic science, criminology, or law enforcement. “Today, when science and its applications in the administration of justice are being hotly debated in India, the life of this woman provides irrefutable proof that truth, when it sets about discovering the truth, has the power to change the system, as well as the individual herself.”

An average tutorial class in the Khed taluka area in Pune, Maharashtra began in the typical manner, just another tutorial class, but deteriorated into a ghastly sight on Monday where a class 10th student deliberately slit the throat of another boy from the same class right before their eyes. 

Due to the occurrence, there is now an unwarranted concern about the growing violence among younger generations. It occurred in a coaching center in Rajgurunagar, which is around 45 kilometers from Pune, at around nine in the morning. The suspect is a 15-year-old youngster who arrived late for class and sat behind a 16-year-old male, according to police reports. According to reports, the younger youngster pulled out a knife and stabbed the elder boy in the abdomen and throat.

According to witnesses, the victim started bleeding heavily, which caused panic. While phoning the emergency services, the school's teachers and pupils hurried to the scene to assist the casualty. After being taken to the closest hospital, the wounded kid passed away. Shortly after the incident, the criminals willingly turned themselves in to the Khed police station, according to police authorities. Additionally, the weapons that were used in the crime have been seized. 

The case has been registered according to section 103 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The issue occurred due to murder. From initial probes, it seems that the murder could also amount to a case of revenge, which originated from a physical fight between the two juveniles three months ago. According to police officials, there was no direct adult intervention involved in the incident. However, it has not been ruled out by the police that it is not related to any of the gangs involving students, who have previously been involved in fights among minors at Mahatma Gandhi Vidyalaya schools.

“We are conducting a detailed investigation to ascertain the motive and background of the case. No angle—assuming that this relates to the involvement of the alleged persons with gangs—is ruled out yet,” Deputy Superintendent of Police Amol Mandve told Reuters news agency.

The incident raised the question of violence in school-going children in the Pune area. This comes hot on the heels of a similar incident that was reported in November when a Class 9 student allegedly attacked a girl over a school event-related dispute. The call for intervention in the form of counseling and more security at coaching centers is now being made by parents and child rights groups. 

Addressing the inauguration ceremony of the newly upgraded A-Class RFSL in Gorakhpur, the Chief Minister pointed out that the six-storey modern facility is constructed at ₹ 72.78 crore and is considered a major step in strengthening law enforcement.

The Chief Minister addressed the inauguration ceremony of the newly upgraded A-Class RFSL in Gorakhpur. He pointed out that the six-storey modern facility, which is built at a cost of ₹72.78 crore, forms part of the major initiatives in augmenting the law and order mechanism.

‘New Uttar Pradesh Has No Place for Crime’

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, "Those days are gone when victims wandered helplessly with a 'lath bore hawa me' attitude and criminals roamed freely. In keeping with its zero-tolerance policy, the state government has put in place a strong system of evidence collection and certification through modern forensic science labs, ensuring that no offender can now escape accountability.

Ensuring Speedy, Accurate Investigations with Hi-Tech Forensics

"Scientific investigation, strengthened by high-tech forensic facilities, has created a reliable mechanism where criminals cannot evade justice. Accurate, swift, and transparent investigations are now enabling victims to receive timely and hassle-free justice," said CM Yogi.

UP Ramps Up Forensic Lab Capacity Fast Since 2017

He said though the most populous state, UP had only four forensic labs till the year 2017. His government decided that there should be a forensic lab in every commissionerate.

From six, the number today stands at 12, while another six are presently on the cards. In no time, each commissionerate will have a lab to ensure complete forensic examination of evidence to establish its veracity and help stringent action against criminals.

Mobile forensic vans in every district

The Chief Minister also highlighted that, besides establishing such labs, the government has deployed two mobile forensic vans in each district to ensure quick evidence collection. This system enables a strong collection of evidences in hours, which helps in delivering justice to victims more efficiently. “Now, no criminal will be able to escape,” he said.

New Criminal Laws Toughen Forensic Standards

CM Yogi further said that before 2017, even when evidence was collected, the absence of adequate forensic facilities often allowed the criminals to go scot-free. But after the introduction of three new criminal laws-the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Sanhita, 2023-pushed through last July under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, forensic labs have become all the more important. Doing forensic investigation has been made mandatory for crimes punishable with more than seven years' imprisonment. UP had done all the ground work for this transformation well in advance.

New Career Opportunities by Forensic Education

The Chief Minister said that forensic science labs will open up new job avenues for youth, too. To this end, UP State Institute of Forensic Science has been established in Lucknow. "It offers a certificate course for lab technicians, a diploma course for field evidence collectors, and a degree course for forensic experts.

State-of-the-Art Facilities for Modern Policing

It is a facility fitted with the latest in DNA diagnostics, AI-based systems, drone laboratories, and robotics labs. It can operate drones from nano models up to 40 kg.

Gorakhpur RFSL to increase precisions and transparency.

CM Yogi said that the upgraded Forensic Science Lab in Gorakhpur is fully equipped with the most modern facilities, which would increase the precision of investigations manifold. This center will mark the beginning of the game-changer for modern policing and ensure timely, accurate, and transparent investigations altogether.

Full-scale forensic capabilities will be used to support law enforcement.

He described the lab as part of the broader government’s zero-tolerance policy on crime. Its primary purpose is to conduct almost all forensic analyses: from ballistics tests down to narcotics, serology, cyber forensics, DNA profiling, and document analysis among a select few institutions.

These, he said, would significantly improve the speed and reliability of police work. It said the government targeted international standards of cyber forensic levels to help effectively combat high-tech crimes in the future.

UP Boosts Police Recruitment and Training

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that the state government accorded highest priority to strengthening the rule of law. In this regard, the state has recruited 2,19,000 police personnel in the last eight years, out of which 60,244 are in the fresh recruitment. "The number of police personnel recruited in UP during this period is more than the total police force of many states," he added.

The Chief Minister also spoke about the simultaneous enhancement of training capacity. In 2017, UP's total police training capacity was only 6,000. At that time, additional training facilities had to be rented when 30,000 new recruits were inducted. Today, the police training capacity in the state has increased by more than tenfold, and all recruits are being currently trained in government-run centers.

He said the government is upgrading the police facilities according to the needs of the department, adding that in many districts, one of the tallest buildings will be police barracks.

Commissionerate System and Safe City Upgrades

Chief Minister Yogi said, "The system of the Commissionerate in Uttar Pradesh was pending for around 50 years. For its implementation, our government showed readiness and in 2020 laid its foundation work. The Commissionerate model is now working in seven

Municipal Corporations and 'Noida and Greater Noida' have been developed as safe cities." He also informed that over 13 lakh CCTV cameras have been installed in major urban centers for increasing safety and security.

Emphasizing the role of CCTV monitoring, the Chief Minister explained that such a system ensures the identification of criminals in hours and leaves nothing hidden. “Today’s Uttar Pradesh does not tolerate crime. The state works with a commitment to security and respect for all,” he asserted.

Establishment of New PAC Battalions and Women's Forces

The CM remembered that previous governments had tried to dissolve the PAC battalion, but his government strengthened it. Along with SSF and SDRF, three women's PAC battalions have been formed - Veerangna Jhalkari Bai in Gorakhpur, Veerangna Uda Devi in Lucknow and Veerangna Avanti Bai Lodhi in Badaun.

He further informed that new PAC battalions have been established in five districts Balrampur, Jalaun, Mirzapur, Shamli, and Bijnor, and funds have been sanctioned to build modern police lines in ten districts. He said due to insecurity, the participation of women in the workforce was previously very low and stood below 13% before 2017. Today, with significant improvement in law and order, more than 35% of the women in the state are employed and able to work without fear or inconvenience. He said the government has brought police services, ambulances, fire, and cyber helpline on one platform of 112 emergency response system, and further, assistance and justice to the citizens will be provided with even greater ease.

Forensic anthropological analyses and reports may include a wide range of information that could provide clues to establish identifications, cause or manner of death determinations, taphonomic alterations, or any other circumstance involving decedents. This is the study of skeletonized remains in medico-legal settings.

However, there is yet no uniform standard, within forensic anthropology in the U.S., which can be applied consistently to case analysis and report writing independent of work environment, education, or case circumstance that does not compromise forensic anthropological expertise in courtroom testimony.

A new study by researchers from Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine found that while some areas of forensic anthropology seem to have a tacit agreement on standardized ways and citations, there are many areas in which forensic anthropologists are divided and not standardized. The researchers said such areas of division and disagreement-for instance, thoughts on objectivity among practitioners and education and training requirements-demonstrate the need for robust and enforceable standardization that applies to all forensic anthropologists.

"Now having evidence of dramatic opposing viewpoints-in some questions, nearly fifty-fifty splits-further pushes for an open discussion on this topic and the beginning of change. Further, because many forensic anthropologists are sole practitioners-32.4%-and consult on forensic anthropology cases without access to standard operating procedures or peer review, universal standards are important," says corresponding author Sean Tallman, Ph.D., associate professor of anatomy & neurobiology.

To examine if this lack of standardization is problematic, the researchers surveyed to explore reporting practices, followed standards, and personal experiences concerning overall practices resulting in case reports. The survey was distributed through an email list related to professional forensic anthropologists and the social media platform X to forensic anthropologists who have experience in creating case reports.

Of those surveyed, the majority, 71.3% felt standardization was necessary; however, there were concerns expressed that the varied venues in which forensic anthropologists are employed (academia, humanitarian settings, government labs and medical examiner/coroner offices) create an issue in standardized requirements. Currently, the "best practice" standards for forensic anthropology do not define which methods to utilize or if peer review should be performed or how.

The findings indicate that the overall lack of standardization in forensic anthropological practice might be due to the different educational pathways to become a forensic anthropologist, given that no specific training requirements are universally accepted and overseen by governing or credentialing bodies.

"Education and training are arguably two of the less standardized aspects of this field. Whereas it is not anticipated or expected that all individuals have the same qualifications - different experiences are available to different individuals - overall, there is a general lack of minimum expectations beyond osteology training. Consequently, forensic anthropologists practicing today are being asked to conduct types of analyses they have not previously experienced, to include post-mortem interval estimation and comparisons of ante-mortem and postmortem X-rays for positive identification," adds Tallman. These findings appear in the journal Forensic Sciences.

Market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India has signed an MOU with the National Forensic Sciences University for further consolidating its technological, investigation, and forensic capabilities. The MOU was signed on 24th November 2025. NFSU, set up under the National Forensic Sciences University Act, 2020 is the country's premier institution in respect of forensic science education and research.

The agreement also aims at developing the competency of SEBI in select areas such as digital forensics, forensic accounting, cyber security, and data analytics. NFSU thus would design and deliver specialized and customized training programs for officers of SEBI with a view to enhance operational efficiency and improve regulatory oversight. The two institutions will jointly organize training sessions, seminars, conferences, and workshops on subjects of mutual interest, with faculty and officers from both sides participating.

The key deliverables of MoU include the following: Development of the latest forensic infrastructure for SEBI, including assistance in establishing state-of-the-art laboratories in domains such as cyber security, digital forensics, and allied sciences. The NFSU may also provide consultancy services to support SEBI in building modern investigative capabilities.

Further, the parties agreed to share knowledge and resources, subject to applicable laws, that can help in efficient discharge of respective functions. The move will help SEBI in handling cases of corporate fraud, fund diversion and other types of cases.