Nagpur Welcomes a New Era in Forensic Education: Union Home Minister Amit Shah Lays Foundation Stone for NFSU Campus
In a landmark event for forensic science education in India, the Hon’ble Union Minister of Home Affairs and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, performed the Bhoomi Pujan and laid the foundation stone for the permanent campus of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) at Chicholi, Kamptee block, Nagpur, on May 26, 2025. The ceremony also marked the virtual inauguration of the university’s transit campus, signaling a significant step toward strengthening India’s forensic infrastructure and criminal justice education.
The event was graced by a distinguished gathering of dignitaries, including Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra; Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Minister of Road, Transport & Highways, Government of India; Shri Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Hon’ble Minister of Revenue, Government of Maharashtra; and Smt. Sujata Saunik, Chief Secretary, Government of Maharashtra. Dr. J.M. Vyas, Vice-Chancellor of NFSU, along with numerous other prominent figures from various fields, also attended, underscoring the importance of this initiative for the region and the nation.
A Milestone for Forensic Science Education
The Nagpur campus of NFSU, the world’s first and only university dedicated exclusively to forensic sciences, is poised to become a hub for cutting-edge education and research in forensic investigation, cyber forensics, and criminal justice. As the 11th campus of NFSU and the first in Maharashtra, it is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing the growing need for skilled forensic experts in an era where crime and cybercrime are becoming increasingly sophisticated.
He highlighted the university’s potential to train professionals who will enhance the efficiency of investigations and strengthen judicial outcomes. Shah also commended the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for prioritizing scientific advancements in governance and justice.
Dr. J.M. Vyas, Vice-Chancellor of NFSU, elaborated on the university’s vision:
He noted that the campus will offer specialized programs in areas such as:
- Drone forensics
- DNA fingerprinting
- Cybercrime investigation
- Forensic psychology
A Vision for Progress
The Bhoomi Pujan ceremony at Chicholi marked the beginning of construction for the permanent campus, which is expected to feature state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories, research centers, and training modules tailored to the needs of modern forensic science. The transit campus, inaugurated virtually during the event, will commence academic operations in the upcoming 2025–26 academic year, allowing students to begin their studies while the permanent campus takes shape.
Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, expressed pride in hosting NFSU’s first campus in the state: “Nagpur is fast emerging as an educational and developmental hub. The establishment of NFSU here will not only elevate the city’s stature but also create opportunities for students and professionals across the region.”
Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister, emphasized the transformative potential of the NFSU campus for Nagpur and Vidarbha, stating, “This institution will empower the youth with skills that are in high demand globally, contributing to both local development and national security.”
Strengthening India’s Forensic Infrastructure
The establishment of the NFSU campus in Nagpur aligns with the Government of India’s broader vision to expand forensic science education and infrastructure across the country. With crime patterns evolving rapidly, the demand for trained forensic professionals has never been higher. NFSU’s curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, offering programs in:
- Forensic chemistry
- Toxicology
- Digital forensics
- Criminology
The Nagpur campus is expected to foster collaborations with law enforcement agencies, judicial bodies, and international forensic institutions, creating a robust ecosystem for research and innovation.
A Day of Dual Celebrations
Earlier in the day, Shri Amit Shah also performed the Bhoomi Pujan for ‘Swasti Niwas’ at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Jamtha, Nagpur, a compassionate initiative aimed at providing accommodation for relatives of cancer patients. The dual ceremonies underscored the government’s commitment to advancing both healthcare and forensic education as cornerstones of a progressive society.
Community and Economic Impact
The NFSU campus is expected to have a significant socio-economic impact on Nagpur and the surrounding regions. By attracting students, faculty, and researchers from across India and beyond, the campus will stimulate local businesses, create job opportunities, and position Nagpur as a key destination for higher education.
A community leader present at the event remarked, “The NFSU campus will put Nagpur on the global map for forensic sciences. It’s a matter of pride for us, and we look forward to the opportunities it will bring.”
Looking Ahead
The Bhoomi Pujan and foundation stone-laying ceremony for the NFSU Nagpur campus mark the beginning of a new chapter in India’s forensic science landscape. As the permanent campus takes shape in Chicholi, the transit campus will serve as a launchpad for academic programs, ensuring that students can begin their journey without delay.
The event concluded with a collective resolve to make the NFSU Nagpur campus a model institution, reflecting India’s aspirations for innovation, education, and justice. As Shri Amit Shah aptly summarized:
