ODISHA BETS BIG ON DIGITAL EVIDENCE: ₹119-CRORE PUSH FOR CYBER FORENSICS AND FSL MODERNISATION
In a major development for India’s forensic and cyber-crime investigation ecosystem, the Odisha government has proposed a ₹119-crore combined investment to strengthen digital forensics, cyber monitoring, and forensic science laboratory infrastructure. The move marks a significant step toward building an evidence-driven criminal justice system in the era of technology-enabled crime.
The proposal includes ₹89 crore for a Cyber Security Centre of Excellence and ₹30 crore for the modernisation of forensic science laboratories (FSLs) across the state.
A Dedicated Cyber Security Centre of Excellence
The proposed Centre of Excellence is designed to function as a specialised hub for cyber-crime response and digital forensic capability building. It will focus on:
- Cyber monitoring and threat detection
- Advanced digital forensic examination
- Capacity building and specialised training
- Rapid response mechanisms for cyber incidents
This initiative will enhance the ability of law-enforcement agencies to handle complex cyber offences such as financial fraud, data breaches, identity theft, and organised online crime using scientific tools and real-time intelligence.
₹30 Crore for Forensic Science Laboratory Upgradation
The parallel investment in forensic laboratories is expected to significantly improve the scientific support available to investigators. Strengthened infrastructure will:
- Reduce the turnaround time of forensic reports
- Enable handling of high-volume digital and biological evidence
- Improve the quality and admissibility of expert testimony in courts
- Provide timely scientific inputs to police investigations
In the Indian criminal justice system, delays in forensic reporting often slow down trials. Modern equipment and trained manpower directly contribute to faster and more reliable justice delivery.
Why This Matters: The Rising Scale of Cybercrime
The decision comes at a time when cybercrime is expanding rapidly in both scale and complexity. Recent police operations in the state have uncovered large networks of mule bank accounts routing illicit cyber-fraud funds, highlighting the need for strong digital forensic capabilities and financial trail analysis.
Modern cyber investigations require:
- Mobile and cloud forensics
- Cryptocurrency tracking
- Network forensics
- AI-assisted data analysis
Integration with India’s National Forensic Vision
Odisha’s initiative aligns with the broader national push toward forensic-led policing. The expansion of central forensic laboratories and specialised forensic universities reflects a nationwide transition to science-based investigation and digital evidence management.
Impact on Investigation, Prosecution, and Forensic Careers
1. Investigation
- Faster acquisition and analysis of digital evidence
- Better coordination between cyber police and FSLs
- Scientific reconstruction of cyber incidents
2. Prosecution
- Stronger electronic evidence presentation in courts
- Improved chain of custody for digital exhibits
- Higher conviction potential in cybercrime cases
3. Capacity Building
- Creation of specialised roles for cyber forensic experts
- Advanced training opportunities for police and scientists
- Increased demand for skilled forensic professionals
A Shift Toward Real-Time Forensics
Traditionally, forensic science in India has been laboratory-centric and reactive. With the proposed Centre of Excellence, Odisha is moving toward a proactive, intelligence-driven, real-time forensic model where monitoring, detection, analysis, and response exist within a single integrated framework.
Conclusion
The ₹119-crore investment marks a transformational moment for forensic science in eastern India. By combining FSL modernisation with a dedicated cyber forensic ecosystem, Odisha is positioning itself to tackle next-generation crime with scientific precision.
For forensic professionals, students, investigators, and legal practitioners, the message is clear: the future of criminal justice in India will be digital, data-driven, and forensic-led.
