Union Budget 2026-27: ₹1471 Crore for Forensic Modernization & Justice System

India’s Union Budget 2026-27 allocates over Rs 1471 crore to modernize forensic capabilities and improve access to justice. The budget, announced on Sunday, details significant investment in infrastructure, technology, and personnel within the criminal justice system.

Forensic Modernization Takes centre Stage

A substantial Rs 500 crore is earmarked for the modernization of forensic capacities specifically under schemes focused on the Safety of Women. An additional Rs 14 crore will be used for upgrading Central Forensic Science Laboratories, including the establishment of a National Forensic Data Centre. This signals a clear governmental priority to enhance the scientific rigor of investigations.

Did You Know? The budget allocates funds for the establishment of off-campus National Forensic Science Universities (NFSUs) and additional Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSLs).

Infrastructure and Interoperability

The National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme receives Rs 130 crore, aimed at strengthening the national forensic infrastructure. The National Forensic Science University (NFSU) itself is allocated Rs 145 crore for academic, administrative, research, and infrastructural activities. Rs 550 crore is dedicated to the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS), designed to integrate digital platforms for seamless data sharing between police, courts, prosecution, prisons, and forensic agencies.

Expert Insight: The significant investment in the ICJS suggests a move towards a more coordinated and efficient criminal justice process, potentially reducing delays and improving case outcomes through better information flow.

The budget also includes Rs 132.89 crore for Criminology and Forensic Science, representing a roughly 34 percent increase from the Rs 99 crore provisioned in the Revised Estimates for 2025-26. This funding will support administrative expenses at the Directorate of Forensic Science and Central Forensic Science Laboratories, as well as modernization efforts, human resource development, and research initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System?

The Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) is aimed at integrating digital platforms to enable seamless data sharing among police, courts, prosecution, prisons, and forensic agencies.

How much funding is allocated to the National Forensic Science University?

The National Forensic Science University (NFSU) has been allocated Rs 145 crore to cover expenses related to academic, administrative, research, and infrastructural activities.

What is the purpose of the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme?

The National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme aims to strengthen the national forensic infrastructure across the country by setting up various off-campus National Forensic Science Universities (NFSUs) and other Central Forensic Science Laboratories (CFSLs).

As these initiatives unfold, it is likely to see a phased implementation of new technologies and infrastructure, potentially leading to improved forensic analysis capabilities and a more streamlined criminal justice process. Further developments could include expanded training programmes for forensic personnel and increased collaboration between different agencies. The success of these programmes may depend on effective coordination and resource allocation.