National Conference on Emerging Trends and Techniques in Forensic Investigations inaugurated at University of Ladakh

National Conference on Emerging Trends and Techniques in Forensic Investigations inaugurated at University of Ladakh University of Ladakh and National Forensic Sciences University, Gujarat, in collaboration with Forensic Science Laboratory (Home Department, UT Ladakh) & National Association for Chemical Security, Ahmedabad, organizing National Conference on “Emerging Trends and Techniques in Forensic Investigations” (ETTFI) on 29-30th July, 2024, at Taru Campus, Leh. The conference aims to discuss and explore various techniques, technologies, methodologies and provide insights into latest developments and trends in forensic science. To assist criminal justice system and to lay emphasis on academic research, it brings together distinguished delegates, forensic science experts, researchers, professionals, policy makers, scholars and students on one platform. Over a period of two days, experts from all over India including Ladakh, would be deliberating on various themes. The inaugural session on 29th July' 2024 saw the august presence of eminent dignitaries such as Prof. (Dr.) SK Mehta, Honourable Vice Chancellor of the University of Ladakh; Dr. OP Chaurasia, Director, DIHAR-DRDO; (Dr.) V. K. Jain, President, NACS, Ahmedabad; Mr. Dhawan K. Rawat, IFS, Deputy Director, Forensic Science Laboratory, UT Administration, Ladakh, Dr. Safdar Ali, IRS, Addl. Secretary, Finance, UT Administration, Ladakh, Shri Ishtiyaq Ahmad Kacho, JKPS, AIG Crime and Intelligence, Ladakh Police, and Ms Saira, Law Officer, Police Headquarters, UT Ladakh. The event was attended by various other eminent personalities; Deans of different schools; faculty members; students of both Eliezer Joldan Memorial College, Leh and Taru Campus, University of Ladakh. An overview of the conference, highlighting the theme, objectives, and expected outcomes was provided by the convener of ETTFI-2024, Dr. Qutsia Tabasum. She emphasized the critical role of forensic sciences in modern investigations and the importance of knowledge sharing through such conferences. The inaugural address was delivered by Prof. (Dr.) V. K. Jain. He stressed the importance of forensic science in justice administration and the need for continuous innovation in investigative techniques. He highlighted the significance of the collaboration between UOL and NFSU in developing forensic science courses. Emphasizing the role of conferences in fostering innovative research, Mr. Dhawan K. Rawat, IFS, discussed the integration of forensic science within law enforcement and the challenges faced in Ladakh region. Dr. OP Chaurasia, the Guest of Honour, highlighted the importance of the emerging discipline of Forensic Science and appreciated the progress made by the University under the worthy leadership of Prof. S.K. Mehta. He noted that the university within a short period of time has established Centralized Interdisciplinary Science Instrumentation Centre (CISIC) having high-end technology and instruments. Keynote address by Prof. (Dr.) S.K. Mehta, Chief Guest, has highlighted the university's commitment to advance forensic science education and research. He further emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and practical learning in specialized areas such as cybersecurity, anti-terrorism, fingerprint science, digital forensics, and environmental forensics. Transforming the university into an advanced research hub, he highlighted the presence of state-of-the-art technology labs and the Forensic Mobile Van at the university. The session was hosted by Dr. Basharat Ali, Joint Organizing Secretary and concluded with vote of thanks by Dr. Mohd. Hussain, organizing Secretary, ETTFI-2024.