DBT launches SAMARTH centre in Hyderabad to strengthen forensic DNA skills and diagnostics ecosystem
In a significant boost to India’s forensic science and biotechnology landscape, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has launched the SAMARTH Skill Development Centre in Hyderabad, aimed at addressing long-standing skill gaps in forensic DNA profiling and molecular diagnostics.
The foundation stone for the centre was laid at the BRIC–Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (BRIC-CDFD) campus in Uppal. The initiative is part of DBT’s broader strategy to build a highly skilled, industry-ready workforce capable of supporting modern forensic laboratories, diagnostic services, and biotechnology startups.
Bridging a critical skills gap in forensic science
Forensic DNA analysis has become central to criminal investigations, disaster victim identification, and judicial processes. However, the rapid adoption of advanced molecular techniques has also exposed a shortage of well-trained forensic professionals across the country.
The SAMARTH centre has been designed to directly address this challenge by offering structured, hands-on training programmes in forensic DNA profiling, molecular diagnostics, quality assurance, and laboratory best practices. The courses are expected to include certification modules for laboratory technicians, young researchers, and professionals already working in forensic and diagnostic labs.
According to officials, the focus will be on practical, case-oriented training aligned with real-world requirements of forensic science laboratories, law-enforcement agencies, and accredited diagnostic facilities.
Integrated with startup incubation and innovation
Alongside the skill centre, DBT has also strengthened the innovation ecosystem at BRIC-CDFD through its technology incubator, which will work closely with SAMARTH. This integration is expected to help trainees and researchers translate laboratory knowledge into indigenous forensic tools, diagnostic kits, and biotech products.
The incubator has already supported multiple early-stage startups, generated employment, and led to patent filings — signalling the potential of Hyderabad to emerge as a national hub for forensic biotechnology innovation.
Government’s vision for forensic capacity building
Speaking at the launch, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh underlined the importance of skilled human resources in strengthening India’s forensic and healthcare infrastructure. He noted that initiatives like SAMARTH align with national priorities such as improving justice delivery, expanding preventive healthcare, and promoting self-reliance in advanced diagnostics.
DBT officials highlighted that locating the centre at BRIC-CDFD — India’s premier institution for DNA fingerprinting and diagnostics — will ensure access to state-of-the-art infrastructure, experienced scientists, and active research programmes.
What lies ahead
While the foundation stone has now been laid, detailed information on course schedules, intake capacity, and accreditation frameworks is expected to be announced in the coming months. Once operational, the SAMARTH centre is likely to play a key role in supplying trained manpower to state forensic science laboratories (FSLs), central agencies, private labs, and emerging forensic startups.
Why it matters for budding forensic experts
For students and early-career professionals, the SAMARTH centre represents a new national-level opportunity to gain specialised, industry-relevant training in forensic DNA science — an area where demand continues to grow with expanding legal and investigative reliance on scientific evidence.
As India modernises its criminal justice and diagnostic systems, initiatives like SAMARTH signal a clear commitment to building capacity not just in infrastructure, but in people — the backbone of credible and effective forensic science.
