UGC-NET Unit 1: Introduction to Forensic Science

Foundations, Scope & Ethics

Forensic Science: Definition, historical milestones, major contributors, and its integral role within the modern criminal justice system. Understand foundational principles, the expanding scope, and the importance of ethical practices in all forensic applications.

6 topics Beginner

Physical Evidence & Chain of Custody

Exploration of the nature and types of evidence (physical, biological, digital, trace, etc.), search and collection methods, proper preservation, packing, and forwarding protocols, and the absolute necessity of maintaining an unbroken chain of custody for admissibility in court.

7 topics Practical

Crime Scene: Types & Preservation

Classification of crime scenes (primary/secondary, open/closed), scene preservation techniques to prevent contamination or loss of evidence, and protocols for first responders and forensic teams.

3 topics Intermediate

Criminal Investigations

Study of forensic approaches to unnatural deaths, assaults, sexual offences, poisoning incidents, and vehicular accidents. Learn investigative protocols, documentation, and the interdisciplinary collaboration required for effective case resolution.

5 topics Case Studies

Courts, Legal Provisions & Expert Testimony

Overview of Indian courts, powers, and jurisdiction; expert evidence, admissibility criteria; relevant provisions of Cr.P.C. (1973) and Indian Evidence Act; court procedures and expert witness roles.

6 topics Legal

Forensic Science Organizations

Structure and functions of national (NICFS, NCRB) and state forensic science laboratories in India; their roles in law enforcement and criminal justice.

3 topics Institutional

Constitutional Rights & Forensic Context

Key Fundamental Rights (Equality, Freedom) under Articles 14–22 of the Indian Constitution, and how these rights intersect with forensic investigations and the treatment of individuals involved in legal processes.

2 topics Civic

Criminal Profiling & Lie Detection

Methods of criminal profiling (including victim and culprit), lie detection (polygraph, narco analysis, brain mapping), their scope, applications in investigations, and limitations.

3 topics Analytical

Quality Control in Forensic Institutions

Importance and principles of quality control management in forensic science laboratories: accreditation standards, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and ensuring reliability/validity of forensic results.

2 topics Standards

Advanced Forensic Applications

Advanced topics in forensic science including emerging technologies, specialized techniques, and future trends in forensic investigations. Integration of modern scientific methods and their applications in complex criminal cases.

8 topics Advanced

UGC NET Forensic Science