The use of forensics to assist legal bodies in solving crimes has evolved with time. Along with traditional methodologies, new techniques are constantly being developed.
The opportunities this field offers cannot be described in words. It has completely transformed the working style of law enforcement agencies. It has come a long way from implementing manual techniques to using high-tech tools to spot suspects and convict criminals.
To discuss about the latest developments in forensics and enrich the existing knowledge of forensic experts and students, the National Forensic Science University, Gujarat, in collaboration with the Directorate of Forensic Science Services, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, organised the 25th All India Forensic Science Conference, from February 1–4, 2023.
Forensic experts, students, trainers, and scientists gathered under one roof and shared their knowledge about forensic science and the scope the future holds for this field.
It was a fun-filled and
knowledge-enhancing event.
It is too difficult to describe all the events in detail; hence, I will share a brief overview of the events that took place each day.
Day 1 – 01/02/2023
- The day began with a
lamp-lighting ceremony with speeches by the honorable vice chancellor of the
university and chief guests.
- The inauguration of the
Forensic Hackathon and exhibition stalls.
- Experts talk on topics
covering DNA fingerprinting, challenges in forensic science, and Biometric
identification systems, and presentations on topics like forensic justice,
forensic psychology, and Medico-legal studies.
- The day concluded with a
visit to the exhibition area.
Day 2 – 02/02/2023
- The day began with a
lamp-lighting ceremony with speeches by the honorable vice chancellor of the
university and chief guests.
- Prize distribution
ceremony of the Forensic Hackathon.
- Experts talk on topics
like the role of forensics in correcting injustice and how forensics can help
combat security challenges.
- The day came to an end with presentations on different themes.
Day 3 – 03/02/2023
- The day began with
expert talks by invited national and international keynote speakers. Several
topics, like the Australian experience of policing and forensic science, what
factors to consider while establishing chain of custody during the prosecution
of environmental crime, justice for crime victims, challenges and innovations
in anti-doping science, technological advancements in searching for missing
persons, and digital forensics challenges, among others, were covered.
- The day came to an end with a visit to the exhibition area and cultural events.
Day 4 – 04/02/2023
- The day began with a
panel discussion on "Police-Academia Interaction for Strengthening the
Criminal Justice Delivery System."
- There were several case
studies put forth by invited keynote speakers and expert talks on topics like
forensic investigation ethics and an interoperable criminal justice system.
- The day came to an end with interactive sessions, poster presentation activities, and a visit to the exhibition area.
The final event
concluded with the AIFSC 2023 valedictory function.
It was a great learning experience. I felt delighted to meet fellow experts and friends and explore different facilities at NFSU.
The event filled everyone with positive vibes to work towards fulfilling bigger goals as forensic experts.