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Context: The Cabinet approved the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES) with a Rs. 2254.43 crore outlay to enhance forensic infrastructure and address manpower shortages.

About National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES)

• The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, approved the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES) with a financial outlay of Rs. 2254.43 crore.
• The scheme aims to significantly enhance the forensic infrastructure in India, addressing the need for effective and efficient forensic services to support the criminal justice system.

Forensic science plays a crucial role in the criminal justice system by providing scientific analysis and evidence for criminal investigations. The NFIES is designed to strengthen India's forensic capabilities by establishing new campuses of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), creating Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSLs), and enhancing the existing infrastructure of the Delhi Campus of the NFSU.

Objectives

• Enhance Forensic Infrastructure: Establish new forensic science university campuses and laboratories to address the increasing demand for forensic services.
• Increase Forensic Manpower: Train and employ more forensic professionals to reduce case backlogs and improve the efficiency of forensic examinations.
• Improve Conviction Rates: Support the criminal justice system in achieving a high conviction rate of over 90% by providing timely and accurate forensic evidence.
• Implement New Criminal Laws: Ensure forensic investigations are conducted for offences with punishments of seven years or more, as mandated by new criminal laws.

Components of NFIES

• Establishment of NFSU Campuses: To provide education and training to future forensic professionals.
• Establishment of Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSLs): To enhance forensic analysis capabilities across the country.
• Enhancement of Delhi Campus Infrastructure: To upgrade the existing facilities and increase the capacity of the Delhi Campus of NFSU.

Implementation Strategy

• Phased Implementation: The project will be implemented in phases over five years (2024-25 to 2028-29) to ensure systematic development and utilization of funds.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaboration with state governments, law enforcement agencies, and educational institutions will be essential for successful implementation.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: A robust monitoring and evaluation framework will be established to track progress, ensure compliance with timelines, and evaluate the impact of the scheme.

Expected Outcomes

• Reduced Forensic Backlog: Increased capacity and efficiency in forensic laboratories will significantly reduce the backlog of cases.
• Trained Forensic Professionals: A substantial increase in the number of trained forensic experts available to support criminal investigations.
• Improved Criminal Justice System: Enhanced forensic capabilities will lead to more accurate and timely investigations, supporting higher conviction rates.
• Nationwide Forensic Education: Expanded forensic education infrastructure will produce a steady stream of qualified forensic scientists.

Conclusion

• The National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES) is a transformative initiative to boost India's forensic capabilities by establishing new campuses, improving laboratory infrastructure, and addressing the shortage of trained professionals. This initiative aims to support the criminal justice system and ensure scientific evidence examination, contributing to a safer and more just society.

Source:

PIB

Pmindia.Gov.In

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Technology has the potential to revolutionise the criminal justice system in India. Discuss some specific ways technology can be used to improve efficiency, transparency, and access to justice. However, there are also concerns about potential biases in algorithms and the digital divide. How can these concerns be addressed to ensure that technology is used ethically and inclusively in the criminal justice system?