TNR News Network
Shimla
The Directorate of Forensic Services, Himachal Pradesh marked its 38th Foundation Day with a grand ceremony at the historic Gaiety Theatre, Mall Road, Shimla. The event was presided over by Hon’ble Education Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Rohit Thakur, who attended as the Chief Guest with the blessings of Chief Minister Shri Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
The celebrations began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the Education Minister, followed by a blood donation camp, a forensic exhibition, and a series of thematic lectures highlighting the growing role of forensic science under the new Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). The exhibition showcased solved heinous crime cases, where forensic experts’ evidence collection and analysis played a crucial role—earning appreciation from stakeholders and the public.
Under the new law, forensic experts’ mandatory visits to crime scenes in cases carrying seven years or more imprisonment have strengthened scientific investigation and crime resolution.
Achievements and Legacy
Director Dr. Meenakshi Mahajan presented the Directorate’s major achievements, technological advancements, and national recognition of forensic laboratories. The Foundation Day lecture was delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Preeti Saxena, Vice Chancellor of Himachal Pradesh National Law University, Shimla, who emphasized the scientific and legal importance of forensic science in the evolving justice system.
Senior officials including IG Police Abhishek Dullar and Director Prosecution Sanjeev Katoch also graced the occasion.
Tracing the Directorate’s journey since December 13, 1988, Dr. Mahajan recalled its humble beginnings in temporary barracks at Bharari with divisions in Biology & Serology and Chemistry & Toxicology. The laboratory shifted to Junga in 1996, adding new divisions over the years including Documents & Photography, Physics & Ballistics, DNA, NDPS, and Digital Forensics.
Himachal Pradesh became the first state in India to establish Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) cells in line with Interpol standards (2014–15). Voice analysis, advanced DNA labs, and digital forensic units further strengthened its scientific infrastructure. In 2018, the Fingerprint Bureau was integrated, bringing all forensic services under one roof.
Between 2019 and 2021, new district forensic units were set up in Nurpur and Baddi, enhancing field-level forensic response. The Directorate also achieved ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation and joined the Asian Forensic Sciences Network.
In the 9th meeting of the Himachal Pradesh Forensic Science Development Board (August 20, 2024), chaired by CM Sukhu, key decisions included opening new district forensic units in Hamirpur, Una, Kullu, Solan, Chamba, Sirmaur, and Kinnaur, along with establishing a Food Forensic Specialty at Junga.
Awards and Recognition
On the occasion, Education Minister Shri Rohit Thakur honored forensic experts, scientists, staff, and children of forensic officials for their outstanding contributions.
- Himachal Forensic Medal (Distinguished Service): Shri Naseeb Singh Patial and Dr. Ajay Singh Rana
- Quality Management System Award: Dr. Ashwani Bhardwaj
- Scene of Crime Management Award: Dr. Naresh Sharma
- Crime Case Analysis Award: Shri Kapil Sharma
Children of forensic staff were also felicitated for their remarkable achievements.
