The Government approved the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme in 2024 with a financial outlay of Rs 22.54 billion for implementation from 2024-25 to 2028-29. As part of this expansion, eight new Central Forensic Science Laboratories were sanctioned in 2023 and 2024.

Filling vacancies in forensic institutions is a continuous process. The Ministry of Home Affairs has reviewed vacancy positions in Central Forensic Science Laboratories and identified measures such as filling posts and updating Recruitment Rules. In the interim, forensic experts have been appointed on a contractual basis to meet manpower requirements.

To strengthen the talent pipeline, the National Forensic Sciences University—established in 2020—provides specialised training and conducts the annual Forensic Aptitude and Calibre Test to identify candidates suitable for engagement by Forensic Science Laboratories. The Ministry has also issued advisories to States and Union Territories urging them to fill vacant positions.

This information was provided by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Shri Bandi Sanjay Kumar, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.