A first, Himachal begins DNA database creation

Tribune News Service

Bhanu P Lohumi
Shimla, April 19

Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in the country to initiate creation of DNA database that will be of immense help in investigating heinous crimes, identification of disaster victims and unclaimed bodies, missing persons and habitual offenders.

The Directorate of Forensics Services, Junga, has procured DNA profile databasing and matching technology (Smallpond TM software from the USA) at a cost of Rs 55 lakh. It has a capacity of about 20,000 DNA profiles that can be scaled up further.

Local database of DNA profile information can be created and maintained with this facility that enables efficient matching of new DNA profiles with the existing ones in seconds. On average, 600 cases with biological evidence come for DNA profiling in the state every year.

With this software, DNA profiles can be maintained as a searchable database that will be immensely useful in providing investigative leads and disaster victims’ identification.

“In future, it will also come handy in keeping a check on the movement of suspicious and criminal elements across borders,” said Vivek Sahajpal, Assistant Director (DNA), Directorate of Forensics Services, Junga.

The State Forensic Science Laboratory, Junga, is the first lab to acquire this technology and the facility is on a par with international standards. “The state government is making efforts to acquire latest technologies in the field of forensic investigation. The acquisition of DNA databasing software is one of the many additions,” said Rakesh Sharma, Director, Directorate of Forensics Services, Himachal Pradesh.

Can store 20K profiles

• Databasing software bought; can store 20,000 profiles
• Will be useful in probing leads, identifying disaster victims
• 600 cases with biological evidence come for DNA profiling in the state every year