National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES)

Why in news?

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Recently approved the proposal for National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES) with a total financial outlay of Rs. 2254.43 crore.

• Aim – To bolster forensic capabilities nationally through modern infrastructure and skilled manpower.
• Nodal Ministry – It is a Central Sector Scheme under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Approved in–2024.
• Implementation – For a period from 2024–25 to 2028–29.
• Objectives
  • Build a sound forensic laboratory infrastructure across India.
  • Prepare world-class trained forensic professionals.
  • Ensure timely and scientific forensic examination of evidence.
• 3 components –
  • Establishment of new campuses of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) across the country.
  • Setting up new Central Forensic Science Laboratories
  • Enhancing the existing infrastructure of NFSU's Delhi campus
• Need for NFIES
  • Enactment of new criminal laws - mandates forensic investigation for offences with punishment of 7 years or more,
  • Significant increase in workload for forensic labs due to expanded legal requirements.
  • Current shortage of trained forensic manpower in Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs).
  • High pendency of cases due to limited infrastructure.
• Strategic Goal – To strengthen the criminal justice system by improving conviction rates and align with the Government’s target of achieving a conviction rate above 90%.

Measures taken so far

• Infrastructure expansion – Establishment of 8 new Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSLs) approved in 2023–24,
  • Establishment of 9 additional National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) campuses.
• Manpower & Recruitment – Vacancy review undertaken by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
• Capacity Building –
  • Upgradation of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) Delhi campus, NFSU established in 2020 to provide skilled manpower.
  • Conducts Forensic Aptitude and Calibre Test (FACT) annually to identify suitable candidates for FSLs.

References

1. PIB | National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme
2. PIB | National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme
3. Ministry of Home Affairs | NFIES