National Forensic Sciences University, Delhi Campus Hosts Seminar & Workshop on Drug of Abuse in Support of UNODC Initiative
Experts and Dignitaries Emphasize the Role of Forensic Science in Combating Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
Date: June 28, 2023
Delhi, India - The National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Delhi Campus, successfully hosted a three-day Seminar & Workshop on Drug of Abuse, aiming to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking, in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The event took place from June 26 to June 28, 2023, to coincide with the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26.
The esteemed inaugural ceremony was graced by the presence of Honorable Vice Chancellor, Padma Shri Dr. J.M. Vyas-NFSU, who emphasized the pivotal role of forensic science in the criminal justice system. Distinguished guests included Dr. Kiran Bedi IPS, Former Lt. Governor of Puducherry, as the Chief Guest, and Sh. Hari Om Gandhi, Senior Commandant CISF & Former Zonal Director of the Narcotics Control Bureau, Gujarat, and UT of Daman & Diu, as the Guest of Honour. The event was jointly organized by Dr. Deepa Varma, Director FSL, Govt. of NCT, Delhi, and Prof. R. K. Sarin.
Prominent speakers at the event highlighted the pressing need for incorporating new advancements and technologies in combating crime effectively. Honorable VC Dr. J.M. Vyas stressed the importance of employing forensic techniques in the analysis of NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) crime cases. Dr. Kiran Bedi, IPS, shared anecdotes from the Navjyoti Drug - De Addiction Centre, shedding light on the journey of its inhabitants towards reformation.
Sh. Hari Om Gandhi underscored the importance of preventing NDPS crimes, identifying precursors to such offenses, and safeguarding juveniles from falling into this complex issue. He discussed the historical context of studying NDPS, dating back 118 years to China, and highlighted the global significance of addressing this issue since its recognition by the United Nations in 1987. He further discussed the varying THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) levels in marijuana and emphasized the role of social consciousness.
Prof. Purvi Pokhariyal, Campus Director of NFSU Delhi Campus, commended the relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies in mitigating this global menace. Dr. Deepa Varma, Director FSL, Govt. of NCT, New Delhi, touched upon the challenges faced in drug abuse cases and emphasized the importance of staying updated with knowledge and technical know-how. She highlighted the alarming statistic that 86.44% of adolescents are consuming NDPS drugs, further underscoring the need for robust solutions.
Prof. R. K. Sarin, from the Department of Chemistry at NFSU Delhi Campus, delivered the welcome address and provided an overview of the course program, shedding light on the comprehensive content covered during the seminar and workshop.
The Seminar & Workshop on Drug of Abuse organized by the National Forensic Sciences University, Delhi Campus, stands as a significant step toward combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The event's discussions and insights will contribute to the advancement of forensic techniques and foster a more effective criminal justice system globally.
