In a major push to modernise the criminal justice system, the Union government has announced an ambitious plan to establish a nationwide network of forensic laboratories over the next five years. The proposed expansion, estimated to cost ₹30,000 crore, is aimed at strengthening scientific investigation, improving the quality of evidence, and significantly reducing delays in the justice delivery process.
Under the plan, every state and Union Territory is expected to have either a forensic science university or a central forensic science laboratory by 2029. Alongside this, existing state forensic science laboratories, regional units and mobile forensic vans will be upgraded to ensure seamless evidence collection and analysis—from the crime scene to the courtroom.
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Targeting delays in justice
Government assessments indicate that the absence of scientific investigation tools, shortage of trained manpower and lack of uniform standards have long contributed to delays in criminal cases. The new framework seeks to address these gaps by strengthening the mechanism through which forensic reports are submitted directly to courts, reducing procedural bottlenecks between investigation and prosecution.
The broader objective is to enable time-bound disposal of cases, with the system envisioned to complete the judicial process—from registration of an FIR to final adjudication—within a defined timeframe in serious criminal matters.
Uniform standards and digital integration
A key pillar of the project is the creation of national forensic standards. Best practices from across states will be consolidated to develop a uniform, scientifically validated framework applicable nationwide. This standardisation is expected to improve consistency in forensic reporting and enhance the credibility of evidence presented in courts.
Simultaneously, the rollout of a centralised e-forensics IT platform is underway. The digital system will allow laboratories to share data securely, track reports in real time and ensure transparency across the forensic workflow.
Data-driven policing
As part of broader criminal justice reforms, all police stations across the country have been brought onto a central digital crime and criminal tracking network. Millions of FIRs are now stored on a central server, enabling advanced crime mapping and pattern analysis.
The proposed establishment of a national ‘modus operandi’ database is expected to further strengthen investigative capabilities by allowing agencies to identify repeat patterns, interlink cases and respond more effectively to organised and serial crimes.
Institutional expansion and manpower development
At present, the number of central forensic laboratories in the country remains limited, even as the demand for scientific evidence continues to rise. Several new laboratories are under construction, while existing facilities are being expanded and modernised.
The government has also placed strong emphasis on human resource development. The National Forensic Sciences University is expected to train tens of thousands of students in forensic disciplines over the coming years. In parallel, large-scale training programmes are underway to upskill investigators, forensic experts and technical staff in emerging technologies.
Technology-led investigations
With the implementation of new criminal laws, forensic science is being positioned at the core of investigations. Capabilities in digital forensics, DNA analysis, cyber forensics and trace evidence examination are being expanded across the country.
According to official assessments, focused investments in forensic infrastructure since 2020 have already begun to yield results, particularly in improving evidentiary standards and accelerating investigations in complex cases.
Financial support for states
To strengthen grassroots forensic capacity, states have already received nearly ₹1,000 crore in assistance for upgrading laboratories, deploying mobile forensic units and setting up regional facilities. Detailed guidelines for standardisation have also been issued to ensure uniform quality across jurisdictions.
In summary, the proposed nationwide forensic laboratory network marks a decisive shift toward science-led criminal investigations. If implemented as planned, the initiative is expected to play a critical role in delivering faster, fairer and more reliable justice, with the government projecting the system to be fully operational by 2029.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
