Forensic Science Council News | Stay Updated with Edinbox

On July 29, 2025, the Home Minister of India, Amit Shah, confirmed that ballistic forensic evidence has positively determined that the three militants killed in a recent operation were the same group of terrorists that carried out the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack, which led to a tragic death of 26 civilians around the Baisaran Valley of Jammu and Kashmir. The identification was made by a detailed ballistic test by forensic experts that matched with the weapons used by the terrorists in the Pahalgam Attack, making a significant breakthrough in the investigation. 

Details of the Forensic Investigation 

After the three terrorists killed during Operation Mahadev near Srinagar were identified as Suleman Shah alias Faizal Jatt, Abu Hamza, and Yasir, their weapons—including one M-4 carbine and two AK-47s—were urgently flown from Srinagar to the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) in Chandigarh late Monday night. Forensic experts immediately began detailed ballistic tests, firing the recovered weapons to produce test cartridge casings for comparison with those found at the Pahalgam attack site.

The forensic experts worked hard at night, poring over the expertise and ensuring everything was perfectly done. Six forensic experts compared the two sets of results and validated, via video conference, early in the morning today (Tuesday) that the shells ejected by the rifles recovered were a hundred percent identical to the cartridge casings recovered at the scene where the terrorists attacked Pahalgam, which inarguably linked the instruments used by the terrorists killed by the police forces to the carnage. 

Overview  of the Pahalgam Attack

On April 22, 2025 five masked militants raided tourists at Baisaran Valley in the picturesque surroundings of Pahalgam and targeted mainly Hindu tourists. It was a violent and heinous attack with attackers picking male non-Muslim tourists by requesting religious intonations and killing them. There were twenty-six dead civilians, some of them newlywed couples, and a local Muslim pony ride operator who tried to intervene unsuccessfully. The weapons in question were also said to be modern assault rifles, which were the same as those of the killed terrorists.

Operation Mahadev, and Militants Tracking.

The three militants killed during operation Mahadev on July 28, 2025 were hunted for more than two months through intelligence works and tracking of a Huawei satellite phone believed to have been used by the militant associates. The operation was carried out by the security agencies including Rashtriya Rifles, Jammu & Kashmir Police and Para SF in jungles of Dachigam, which is near Srinagar.

The identities of the militants were also confirmed by cross verification with local informants, Pakistani voter identity cards, and other available evidence pointing to their foreign origins and links to Pakistan based terrorist organizations, in particular Lashkar-e-Taiba ( LeT ). Two of the attacking militants were established members of LeT, and the organization had earlier been involved in various attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.

Official Statements of Home Minister

Addressing a Lok Sabha session, Home Minister Amit Shah said that he was proud of the forensic confirmation and the untiring efforts of Indian security agencies. He told the nation that there is no place to doubt over the involvement of these three terrorists in the Pahalgam massacre and that they would get justice.

This case is the best  example of how vital forensic science is in the process of counterterrorism efforts. Ballistic matching is another scientific way of connecting weapons retrieved to crime scenes unambiguously thus making the charges related to the case supported by undeniable facts. The political nature of Kashmir is hostile and sensitive in which nothing less than perfection in terms of accuracy of security claims can lead to justice and peace. 

As an Indian youth, aspirant, and career seeker, choosing forensic science can be the best career decision because this case proves how forensic science helps law enforcement by offering a transparent and credible foundation for national security decisions and more. Pursuing this field could turn out to  be highly rewarding to both the nation and the individual

All the people who are forensic scientists have obtained a bachelor degree or a master degree in Forensic science or in a subject related to the forensic field such as biology, or chemistry. However,  there are individuals who have gotten into the field by means of different paths other than formal education, like thorough training programs, certifications, volunteer work, or employment in criminal justice positions allied to this one.

Steps to Become a Forensic Scientist without a Degree 

1. Certifications and Courses Accreditation

Although it is common to have a college degree, there are organizations, as well as, other independent institutes which provide certification courses in specialised areas of forensic science such as International Forensic Science (IFS) India, NFSU, etc

Crime scene investigation courses, fingerprint analysis courses, digital forensics courses or laboratory courses (online and offline) can enhance your basic knowledge and improve your resume when applying to an entry-level or assistant position.

2. Enter via Related Criminal Justice Work Other jobs 

Most criminal justice careers, like security guard, or police dispatcher, or a loss prevention specialist, are entrant-level jobs and do not usually require a degree and can expose you to investigations and handling evidence.

There are some police employers that accept people who have not had a degree to take up work in the force and after they are employed they are taken through on-the-job training where they are exposed to a little of forensics. With time, one can be appointed to specialized evidence technician or CSI assistant jobs.

3. Intern, Work as an Assistant or Volunteer

It is essential to obtain working experience. See opportunities to do internships, volunteer projects or become a junior in a forensic lab, police evidence room or similar. Part-time or no-pay jobs as well can assist you to create a network and a vocational base that will be sought by recruiters.

4. Networking and Professional associations

Take forensic science workshops, conferences, webinars, and seminars -even as a non-degree student.

Becoming a member of a professional association or online communities also would enable you to find mentors, get updated about job opportunities, and what is happening to the field.

5. Acquisition of Technical Skills

In forensic work, expertise in evidence processing, chemistry, analytical equipment is essential, especially when based in a lab. Employers will respect hands-on technical training and you can have that experience even outside of formal academia as long as you prove you are skilled and responsible.

In the case of digital forensics, learning on your own and certification by the industry (e.g. CompTIA Security+, EnCase Certified Examiner, etc.) may at times provide an entry-level employment opportunity.

Why have Realistic Expectations?

The work of a forensic scientist is highly technical and responsible and as such most metaphysical forensic scientist jobs in India and in other countries demand at least a bachelor level degree. Nonetheless, exceptions are possible, at least in support, in house laboratories, or in innovative development of new kinds of forensic technologies (e.g. in digital forensics). 

Other successful forensics professionals begin with a baccalaureate degree in criminal justice or policing and proceed to become specialized through special training, promotions within the agency, and brief studies.

The Key Steps to Start Your Journey

• Take as many online or short-term forensic science programs as possible.
• Pay attention to mastering practical work in a field of interest (crime scene investigation, lab analysis, digital forensics, and others).
• Find part-time employment or volunteer internships to get practical experience.
• Look to obtain industry certifications and make sure you continue your knowledge with trends and technologies. 
• Build a network by associating in related forums, industry events, and through contacting the professionals.

Without regular college education, one can become a forensic science expert if they have the skills. Practical experience, certification, and abilities are all vital in the field, and it places great importance upon them. Even without a degree, one can make a way in forensic science provided they are passionate, determined, and active in their learning and networking.

Note: Do the research on the ins and outs of the minimum qualifications of the desired jobs: some employers and some regions have different requirements

Forensic odontology could be your ideal career when you have an enthusiasm in science, crime investigation, and dentistry. In India, this specialized area of forensic science is becoming more popular due to its key role in criminal investigations, disaster management, and human identification. If you are planning to pursue a career in the Forensic science field , this is all you should know about the discipline, the subjects, eligibility, area of application and career outlook of forensic odontology.

What is Forensic Odontology?

Forensic odontology (or forensic dentistry) is the field of dental science involved in legal inquiries. Forensic odontologists combine their understanding of the anatomy of teeth, bite marks and dental records in their work to contribute to identifying the remains of human beings, in criminal investigations and even to render expert testimony in a court of law. Their services play a major role in cracking crimes, detecting victims of disasters, and resolving legal cases that include dental evidence.

What do Forensic Ontologists do? 

• Identification of the unknown bodies: In case of disaster such as fire or floods, dental records tend to last longer than the fingerprints or DNA.
• Bite Mark Analysis: Forensic experts analyse bite marks found on victims or objects and match them to a suspect’s dental profile
• Dead and living: Age estimation of those deceased or living by using teeth, particularly in cases of missing children or those of unknown individuals.
• Disaster Victim Identification: The case is necessary in mass casualties, such as in natural disasters and accidents.
•  Legal Testimony: Forensic odontologists provide expert opinions in both criminal and civil court cases.

Skills Needed To be a Forensic Odontologist

To be successful in this field you need to have the following skills:

1. Good knowledge in dentistry and dental anatomy.
2. Critical thinking and attention to details. 
3. Curiosity to solve puzzles and interest in manipulating legal cases. 
4. Ease with medico-legal guidelines and collaboration with law enforcers. 

Step-by-step guide to becoming a forensic odontologist in India:

Eligibility criteria 

To be eligible, one needs at least 50% marks. 

Top colleges offering Forensic odontology in India

• Amity University in Noida
• Gujarat Forensic Sciences University
• National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in Gandhinagar
• Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)
• All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
• And many more..

Career Scope at & Job Opportunities

Forensic odontology qualification or degree lays many doors open:

• Government Forensic Labs: Forensics and law enforcement, Disaster assistance, attorney negotiations, consultancy
• Medical Colleges & Universities: Medico-legal case support, teaching and research
• Disaster Response Teams: Mass identification of disaster victims in India and in the world
• In Private Practice: Bite mark analysis, age determination and consulting to law enforcement agencies

Central and state forensic labs, CBI, police department, disaster management agencies and legal consultancy firms are some places where you can find these job opportunities.

Salary range of Forensic Odontologist

• Freshers: 3 to 6 lakhs a year 
• Senior Practitioners: 8 lakhs to 15 lakhs per year or even higher depending on skills, specialisation, and the role.

If you want to thrive faster, it is advised to build a network and connection. Here are 2 places you can find like-minded people:

1. Indian Association of Forensic Odontology (IAFO): This is the biggest professional group that provides conferences, newsletters, platforms to conduct research, etc.
2. Indian Dental Association (IDA): Advocacy, monetary awards, and networking resources of dental practitioners who seek to pursue forensics.

So, is forensic odontology a good career?

This is a very rewarding field, in case you are interested in solving real life puzzles and in making a significant contribution to justice and humanitarian activities. There is an increased demand for more professionals in forensic odontology in India, in the fields of law, disaster relief and investigation of crime. The combination of science and service in the job makes this ideal at least to students desiring both purpose and challenge.

Forensic odontology is a good career option for Indian students who wish to have a career in the forensic science field. This career choice of Indian science and dental students combines their love for science, service, and investigation into one impactful profession. Thus, considering this field of study can be a rewarding choice in the 21st century. 

FAQs

1. Can non-dental graduates qualify as forensic odontologists?

No. If you wish to become a specialist in forensic odontology in India, you should at least have a BDS degree (Bachelor of Dental Surgery). 

1. Is there possibility of research in Forensic Odontology?

Yes. If you are pursuing M.Sc., writing conferences (such as the ones organized by IAFO) and publishing studies, you need to do  research. There is a scope for deep research as well in this field. 

1. Are there Forensic Odontology less duration courses?

Yes, a number of institutes offer diploma courses ranging from 6 months to 1 year. 

Knife crime is a growing concern in many countries such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Talking about India, specific types of knife-related crimes and offenses are seeing a rise, especially among juveniles and in specific cities. Knives have indeed become the most common weapons used in murders, especially in Australia, and their use in violent crimes is on the rise around the globe. But despite the unfortunate commonality of knife attacks, they still are difficult to investigate. 

Why Are Knife Crimes So Hard to Investigate?

A stabbing is not just an act of violence; the very nature of it is personal, often involving a face-to-face confrontation. Each case is unique, with many factors influencing what happens during an attack:

1. Characteristics of the attacker: these can include factors such as height; strength; right or left-handedness; and indeed whether the attacker is skilled in the use of knives. 
2. Characteristics of the victim: body build and posture may have a bearing; so may the number of layers of clothing interposed between blade and flesh.
3. Details of the weapon: the very blade of the knife may make all the difference-a kitchen knife with a small cutting blade may produce entirely different wounds than would a machete.
4. Environmental factors: Depending upon lighting, location, and even weather, the details of the attack and the evidence left may vary.

Because of these things, remaking the crime scene to understand stabbing turns into a very complicated puzzle. The investigators need to combine witness statements, physical evidence (such as blood stains or fibers), and trace materials that are sometimes less obvious but include DNA or soil into a coherent story. 

Role of forensic science in knife crime investigations 

Forensic analysts combine scientific analysis with investigative forensic techniques to figure out what actually happened during a stabbing. Their objectives include:

• Characterize the weapon used.
• Work out if the act was intentional or accidental.
• Work out the force applied and the angle of attack.

All these make the process complicated. The witnesses might have been in shock as it occurred, or might have had poor visibility of the event; whereas physical evidence can possibly be contaminated or degraded in many ways. That is when simulations take over. 

Simulations of Stabbings

To properly understand how a stabbing took place, investigators have to recreate the incident. Three main ways exist. 

1. Manual-Type Simulations

What are they? Human experts physically replicate stabbing motions in order to study wound profiles and test materials, such as clothing.

Pros: Valuable knowledge about biomechanics and real-life scenarios can be obtained.

Cons: The results may be subjective as different people tend to produce forces and use techniques in diverse ways.

2. Mechanical Simulations

What are they? Machines carry out controlled, repeatable stabbing motions. 

Pros: Human error is eliminated and consistency achieved.

Cons: They can only imitate a limited range of human movement and force, and there are no standard protocols for doing so.

3. Robotic Simulations 

What are they? Sophisticated robots imitate with an almost-human elasticity but machine-like precision.

Pros: Interpolates the advantages of missiles accuracy-repeatability adaptability.

Cons: It is still under development, expensive to acquire, operates with professional assistance, and needs a lot more validation in real-life situations before being accepted for common use.

Why Is Clothing So Significant in Stabbing Cases?

The clothing will literally change the course of a stab. A heavy coat may decelerate or even blunt a knife, whereas light material won't provide much defense. That's why simulations have to account for:

1. Pre-impact factors: Garment type, weapon, and attacker's and victim's physical features.
2. Impact factors: Method of stabbing, force, and angle.
3. Post-impact factors: How the body breaks down, whether the scene has been disturbed, and environmental factors such as rain or heat.

Adding variables makes simulations more realistic but harder to do. Planning is required to prevent errors.

Blending Methods for Improved Results

Recent studies indicate that the best method is to blend manual, mechanical, and robotic simulations. Here's how it's done:

• Manual simulations are used to train robotic systems to more closely replicate human movements.
• Robots subsequently carry out accurate, repeatable tests, which provide consistent measurements.
• Mechanical tools plug the gaps, providing controlled experiments where required.

This approach closes gaps in existing forensic science, bringing crime scene reconstructions closer to being accurate and reliable. It ultimately brings justice to victims and provides reassurance that investigations are based on robust, scientific evidence.

Knife crime is a serious problem, yet emerging technologies in robotics and forensic science are increasingly making it simple to investigate and crack the cases. Adopting the combination of old expertise and forensic technology, investigators can solve even the most intricate crimes. With this technology becoming more available and proven, we can look forward to even improved outcomes in the quest for justice.

The field of forensic science is transforming at an accelerated pace. Still, the debate regarding the validity of some of the forensic tools, such as the infamous so-called lung float test and the widely criticised ‘wire-cut forensics examinations is at the forefront as far as criminal justice in the country is concerned. The renewed government or administration interest in forensic science and the introduction of new criminal law, which requires forensic investigation of serious crimes in the country makes it very important that forensic professionals and their students as well as policymakers are informed about strengths as well as limitations of the tools they are using on a daily basis.

What is so important about Reliability in Indian Forensics?

The conviction rate that India has as of now is 54%, which the government plans to make the highest globally, incorporating technology and forensic evidence at all points, i.e. crime scene to the courtroom. But forensic evidence reliability is usually in question because of obsolete equipment, uneven procedures, and professional training shortages.. A recent study titled, The Dark Side of Forensic Science: Issues and Pitfalls in India, showed that more than half of the forensic laboratories in India are facing the problem of outdated technology, and nearly 30% of the professionals have mentioned the importance of standardised routine and improved training. 

The Lung Float Test is Science or Speculation?

The lung float test is a classic example of a forensic method under scrutiny. Traditionally, it was used to determine whether a newborn was born alive (lungs will float) or stillborn (lungs will sink). However, this test has been criticised for its lack of scientific reliability. False positives or negatives can result from factors such as decomposition, artificial inflation, or disease. This test is increasingly regarded by modern forensic science as unreliable, and courts in India and in other countries are shifting to DNA and histopathology analysis, which are more definitive. 

Wire-Cut Examination Method

Reliability is also a questionable characteristic in regard to wire cut analysis. Forensic researchers study the ends of wires that have been cut to ascertain the tool used and whether it was tampered with. The reliability of wire-cut analysis is also debated. Forensic experts examine the ends of cut wires to determine the tool used and whether tampering has occurred. However, errors can arise due to tool wear, environmental factors, and subjective interpretation. The absence of standardised protocols and advanced visualisation tools increases the risk of misinterpretation, a challenge for many Indian laboratories due to limited resources..

It is in the realisation of these challenges that India is experiencing the transformation of the forensic community:

1. Compulsory Forensic: New statutes in criminal procedure demand investigation by forensics of every crime that threatens more than seven years' punishment, and therefore, dependability is even more essential than before.
2. Summits and Conferences: Events like the All India Forensic Science Summit (AIFSS) 2025 are bringing together experts to discuss policy, share best practices, and push for standardisation and technological upgrades.
3. Government Initiatives: The National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) is leading research, innovation, and training, while hackathons and collaborations with startups are fostering indigenous forensic technology.

Key huddles of Indian Forensics

• Outdated equipment: More than half of Indian laboratories use equipment that is past its prime, compromising the quality and speed of forensic analysis.
• Lack of uniform Protocols: Non-uniformity of methodologies gives rise to differences in the results among the states and even in the laboratories.
• Training Gaps: Most forensic practitioners are not privy to up-to-the-minute training, and particularly not to emerging digital-based and artificial intelligence-based methods.
• Legal and procedural obstacles: The body of law is lagging behind the current scientific developments, and thus, the strength of the forensic evidence in court is impacted by these challenges. 

Despite these difficulties, India is making progress, and the forensic science field in India is growing. India is blending computerised proofs, AI-enhanced comprehension, and real-time observation that are adding precision and effectiveness to forensic investigations. In high-profile cases in the past, digital and forensic evidence have led to a conviction in a record time of 23 days, indicating the potential of effective forensic practices.  Programs such as the Forensic Hackathon are developing a spirit of cooperation between labs, academia and industry to address practical issues.

What should the Indian Forensic Professionals and aspirants look into?

Attend summits and workshops to stay updated on legislative changes and the latest forensic techniques. Advocate for standard operating procedures in your laboratory or institution. Gain expertise in digital forensics, artificial intelligence, and modern methods that are replacing outdated tests like the lung float test. Always be transparent about the limitations of forensic techniques—scientific integrity is essential for justice.

Here’s how forensic science education in India is transforming:

• Exposure: The students and aspirants are more exposed to forensic science courses. Social media is playing a big role in this. 
• Demand: Earlier, the demand for forensic experts was less; however, with the advancement in technology, their demand has increased dramatically. 
• Salary: Due to the advent of AI in all sectors, the salary dip is concerning Indian youth. Thus, they are now seeking varied fields with high salary potential.
• Better education: Due to advancements in technology, learning has transformed, making knowledge accessible to anyone,  anywhere. 
• Courses in colleges: Unlike a few years ago, forensic science courses are offered in both government and private universities in India, leading students to pursue them. 

In short, forensic techniques are becoming reliable in India; however, they still face problems. India has the potential to deliver justice in the right manner and to all the citizens through the process of modernisation of equipment, standardisation of processes, and training of forensic professionals. 

Lovely Professional University (LPU), Punjab, is hosting a one-hour forensic science workshop on 7th July 2025, starting at 11:00 am. The topic of this workshop is, “Building Career In Forensic Science:Scope, Skills, and Success.” This is going to be an insightful session for students and young professionals who are eager to explore the dynamic world of forensic science. 

The speaker of this workshop is Dr. Tejasvi Pandey, the Head of the Department of Forensic Sciences at LPU, whose expertise spans both academic research and hands-on casework. All the participants will benefit from Dr. Tejasvi’s insights about real-world skills and practical advice on how to build a career in this field..

Here’s what you can expect to gain from the workshop: 

• Key Insights of Crime Scene Investigation
• Learn about Fingerprint Development
• Understand the Crime Scene Photography
• Learn about Evidence Handling
• Get Hands on Training
• Dive into real-life case discussions
• Get your questions answered by experts

Individuals interested in the field of forensic science will immensely benefit by attending specialized workshops. Such sessions offer a dedicated venue to fill a gap between theory and practice, allowing direct experience of critical processes, including crime scene investigation, fingerprint analysis and evidence processing. The workshops conducted by industry professionals and academic experts introduce students to the best practices, emerging technologies, and real life case studies, which are not subject of the textbooks. 

In addition, practical Q&A panel discussions and networking will let the forensic science aspirants get clarity about career options, learn more about the profession, and make industry contacts. Real-life practical exposure in any field, in a competitive and dynamic field such as forensic science can not only boost employability but also provides confidence to deal with real-life issues in law enforcing, research and legal cases.

The workshop shall be hosted by AIFSET (All India Forensic Science Entrance Test)  and powered by LPU (Lovely Professional University) reflecting a strong partnership aimed at nurturing the next generation of forensic experts in India. All the interested students can enroll for this FREE 1-hour workshop by joining the whatsapp group via this link: https://chat.whatsapp.com/C53Pyo0xoLEGPfvD9QU6Ii. 

As the demand of forensic experts in the field of law enforcement, investigation and research grows, the workshop presents a unique opportunity to acquire practical knowledge. Join the group now and connect with practitioners in the field, gain real-world insights into forensic science, and learn about the truth of this field. 

LPU’s mission is to transform education through academic rigour, practical orientation and outcome based teaching, and this workshop reflects this aptly. This opportunity won’t come again; enroll today and benefit from it. Mark your calendar for 7th July, 2025 to take a step towards a prosperous career in forensic science via AIFSET and LPU.

For more information, feel free  to call on toll free number 08035018480.