DGP: Over 16k cases examined in state forensic labs since 2022

Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday inaugurated the drone lab, DNA lab, and Atal library at the Uttar Pradesh State Institute of Forensic Science (UPSIFS), Lucknow. He also flagged off 75 modern forensic vans equipped with advanced technology for deployment across all districts of the state.Director general of police (DGP) Rajeev Krishna highlighted the remarkable progress of forensic sciences in the state and said that since 2022, at least 16,255 cases were examined in state laboratories, of which 15,105 involved fingerprint analysis. He praised UPSIFS as a milestone institution offering international-level education and research in forensics, bringing global recognition to Uttar Pradesh.Additional secretary, ministry of electronics and IT, Government of India, Abhishek Singh stressed India's determination to achieve technological self-reliance. He said India no longer wishes to depend on foreign digital products and is actively developing its own solutions, including indigenous alternatives to Microsoft Office. He highlighted the need for voice-based services in local languages, AI models trained on Indian data, and cyber forensic labs for enhanced digital security."When technology speaks your language, it becomes a tool of empowerment," Singh remarked, noting the contributions of startups like Sarvam, Gyani, and Socket in this direction.Founder Director of UPSIFS, GK Goswamy emphasised integrating legality into every stage of development—from product design to service delivery. Drawing an analogy with medical science, he explained that just as doctors provide preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic care, UPSIFS imparts forensic education with a holistic approach.He highlighted the institute's merit-based admissions through national-level exams, noting that last year's cut-off for major programs stood at 92%, a testimony to the institute's growing prestige.Pointing to the future, Goswamy presented the concept of "Forensics as a Service" (FaaS), envisioning a system where digital diagnostics and forensic services are available at the click of a button. He said that UPSIFS, with its students, faculty, and experts, is fully prepared to lead this transformation in forensic science, justice, and global security.