Are Cyber Forensic Divisions Emerging in Punjab, Nagaland, and Andaman Islands?
Synopsis
The establishment of cyber forensic divisions in Punjab, Nagaland, and the Andaman Islands marks a significant step towards enhancing forensic capabilities in India. With ongoing training and funding, these initiatives aim to improve cyber security and forensic science across the nation. Discover more about this critical development!
Key Takeaways
New cyber forensic divisions are being set up in Punjab, Nagaland, and the Andaman Islands.
Currently, 27 states and union territories have functional cyber forensic facilities.
The Government has allocated Rs 126.84 crore for establishing six additional NCFLs.
There are 181 pending cases at the NCFL in Hyderabad.
Continuous training for cyber professionals is essential for effective operations.
New Delhi, Feb 3 (NationPress) Cyber forensic divisions are set to be established in Punjab, Nagaland, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as the Parliament was informed on Tuesday. This comes in addition to the 27 States and Union Territories which already possess such facilities.
The Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, provided a written response in the Lok Sabha, revealing that Sikkim is the only state lacking such a facility.
According to the MoS, the other four Union Territories - Chandigarh, Daman Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Lakshadweep, and Ladakh - are utilizing forensic science resources from neighboring states and the Central Forensic Science Laboratories.
The Government of India has also set up a National Cyber Forensic Laboratory (Evidentiary) (NCFL (E)) in Hyderabad, with a financial outlay of Rs 37.34 crore.
Funds amounting to Rs 126.84 crore have been sanctioned under the umbrella scheme “Safety of Women” for the establishment of six NCFLs(E) at various Central Forensic Science Laboratories located in Delhi, Chandigarh, Kolkata (West Bengal), Kamrup (Assam), Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), and Pune (Maharashtra).
So far, Rs 22.51 crore of the sanctioned amount has been utilized, as stated by the MoS.
When asked about pending cases in cyber forensic labs across different states, the MoS mentioned that comprehensive details are not maintained centrally.
Regarding the backlog at the central lab in Hyderabad, the MoS reported that currently, 181 cases are awaiting examination at NCFL (E) Hyderabad, which is staffed by four in-house experts and five contractual personnel.
Bandi Sanjay Kumar emphasized that the reskilling and upskilling of cyber professionals is an ongoing endeavor, primarily achieved through on-the-job training.
The National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) also conducts a variety of training programs in the field of cyber forensics. He noted that over the last five years, 66 training programs with 1,852 participants have been organized by the NFSU for officers from various government departments.
Point of View
The establishment of cyber forensic divisions represents a proactive approach to addressing the growing challenges in cyber security. This initiative not only highlights the government's commitment to enhancing forensic capabilities but also underscores the importance of continuous training for professionals in this field. As technology evolves, so must our strategies to combat cyber threats, ensuring a safer environment for all citizens.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cyber forensic divisions?
Cyber forensic divisions are specialized units that focus on investigating cyber crimes and analyzing digital evidence to assist law enforcement agencies.
Which states are receiving new cyber forensic divisions?
Punjab, Nagaland, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are the states where new cyber forensic divisions are being established.
What is the budget for establishing these divisions?
The Government of India has allocated Rs 126.84 crore under the Safety of Women scheme for the establishment of six cyber forensic laboratories.
What is the current status of cases in cyber forensic labs?
As of now, there are 181 pending cases for examination at the National Cyber Forensic Laboratory in Hyderabad.
How is the government training cyber forensic professionals?
The government conducts ongoing training programs through the National Forensic Sciences University, which has organized 66 training programs for 1,852 participants over the last five years.
