National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES)

Context: The Union Cabinet approved the “National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme” (NFlES) for improving the criminal justice system in India.

National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES)

This National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme (NFIES) aims to enhance forensic infrastructure across the country by establishing off-campus laboratories of the National Forensic Sciences University in 28 States and all Union Territories.

• Type: Central Sector Scheme
• Implementation: By the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Financial Outlay: The central government allocated Rs 2254.43 crore for the scheme, sourced from the budgetary allocation of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Duration: The scheme will be in effect for 5 years, from 2024-25 to 2028-29.

Components of NFIES

• Construction of Campuses: Building campuses of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) across the country.
• Establishment of Laboratories: Setting up Central Forensic Science Laboratories nationwide.
• Strengthening Existing Infrastructure: Enhancing the infrastructure of the Delhi Campus of NFSU.

Aim of NFIES

• To bolster forensic science infrastructure for the scientific investigation of crimes.
• Supports the implementation of new criminal laws: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.
• Forensic investigation is mandated for criminal cases with potential imprisonment of seven years or more, increasing the demand on forensic services.

Expected Outcomes of NFIES Scheme

• Construction of new NFSU off-campuses and Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSLs).
• Alleviate the shortage of trained forensic professionals.
• Reduce the caseload and pendency in forensic laboratories.
• Assist in achieving the government’s goal of a high conviction rate exceeding 90%.

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