Directorate of Forensic Science, Himachal becomes part of Asian network

• The Directorate of Forensic Science (DFS), Himachal Pradesh, has been included in the Asian Forensic Science Network (AFSN) board as a member.
• The DFS is the 47th member in Asia, second in the country after the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), Hyderabad, and first in the state.
• It took almost a year for the primary screening of the DFS, going through various queries regarding facilities and infrastructure available, crime pattern, instrumentation and competence of forensic officers and methods adopted in criminal cases to achieve this.
• Now, the DFS will be instrumental in formulating strategies related to forensic science issues in Asia. The Asian Forensic Science Network provides a forum for forensic science institutes in Asia for discussion, enhances quality of forensic services through expert working groups, training, collaborative studies, proficiency tests and accreditation. Moreover, the platform also helps in establishing links with other similar networks.

Director, State Forensic Science Laboratory, Junga, Dr Arun Sharma said the inclusion would provide a unique identity to the state.
ABOUT Asian Forensic Science Network (AFSN)

AFSN has developed a lot since its foundation in 2008. There are already 47 member institutes from 15 countries as of 8th Sep 2017. We also have 6 workgroups (DNA, Trace Evidence, Crime Scene Investigation, Illicit Drugs, Toxicology, and Digital Forensic) and a Quality Assurance & Standards Committee. During these years, AFSN has been providing an amazing platform for technical communication, training, quality enhancing and strategy developing for improving forensic science in Asia. We show great appreciation to all members, former presidents, board members and Chairs/Vice-Chairs/Secretaries of workgroups who have devoted a lot to Asian forensic work. It is them who build the strong basis for AFSN and now a wonderful starting point for us to do more.

Purpose of AFSN

• To provide a forum for forensic science institutes in Asia for discussion on issues relating to forensic services.
• To enhance the quality of forensic services in Asia through expert working groups, training, collaborative studies, proficiency tests and accreditation.
• To establish links with other similar networks for the promotion and advancement of forensic science.
• To formulate strategies relating to forensic science issues in Asia.

By: Pooja Sharda