In a major step toward enhancing law enforcement and public safety, the Uttar Pradesh government has significantly expanded its forensic infrastructure, strengthening the state’s capacity to investigate and solve crimes. Announced on August 18, 2025, the initiative builds on efforts started in 2017 and marks a remarkable transformation in forensic services, reflecting the government’s commitment to modernizing policing and boosting citizen confidence in the criminal justice system.

Since 2017, the state has increased the number of operational forensic laboratories from four to twelve, providing comprehensive scientific support to criminal investigations across multiple districts. Each laboratory is equipped with advanced tools for analyzing physical evidence, including DNA, fingerprints, ballistic materials, digital forensics, and chemical samples. The expansion ensures faster processing of evidence, reducing the backlog of cases and enabling more timely justice for victims. Officials emphasize that strengthening forensic capabilities is key to improving conviction rates and making crime detection more efficient and reliable.

In addition to physical expansion, the state has integrated its forensic services with the National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS), a central database designed to digitize and store fingerprints from across the country. To date, Uttar Pradesh has digitized over 4.14 lakh fingerprints, significantly enhancing the ability of law enforcement agencies to identify suspects, link evidence, and solve cases more quickly. This integration has improved coordination between local police departments and national authorities, enabling a more streamlined and technologically advanced approach to crime detection and investigation.

The government’s plans include adding six more forensic laboratories in the coming years, ensuring that high-quality scientific support is accessible throughout the state. These laboratories will cover additional districts, allowing authorities to manage forensic demands more efficiently and extend specialized services to regions that previously had limited access. By decentralizing forensic resources, the state aims to provide timely, accurate results that are crucial for both criminal trials and preventive policing.

Officials highlight that these improvements have a direct impact on public confidence. Citizens are increasingly assured that crimes will be investigated thoroughly and scientifically, with evidence-based conclusions forming the backbone of law enforcement processes. The combination of advanced laboratories, digitized fingerprint databases, and trained forensic personnel is helping to create a modern, responsive policing ecosystem that meets the challenges of contemporary crime.

Furthermore, the expansion aligns with broader national objectives to modernize policing and leverage technology in criminal justice. By integrating digital tools, scientific analysis, and centralized databases, Uttar Pradesh is positioning itself as a leader in evidence-based crime investigation. The state’s approach serves as a model for other regions seeking to enhance forensic capabilities while maintaining efficiency and accountability.

Overall, the expansion of forensic laboratories and integration with NAFIS represents a major milestone for Uttar Pradesh. It demonstrates a forward-looking approach to crime prevention, investigation, and justice delivery. By investing in technology, infrastructure, and human resources, the government is not only strengthening law enforcement but also fostering public trust and ensuring that the justice system remains robust, transparent, and effective for all citizens.