Kolkata, August 16, 2024

The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) is delighted to announce the inauguration of its state-of-the-art Centre for Wildlife Forensics and Conservation Genomics by Smt. Leena Nandan, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India, on August 16, 2024.

 

After inaugurating the centre Smt. Leena Nandan, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said, "The Centre for Wildlife Forensics and Conservation Genomics at ZSI represents a significant leap forward in our efforts to combat wildlife crime and protect India's rich biodiversity. This facility, equipped with the latest genomic technologies, will provide critical support to law enforcement agencies and set new benchmarks in conservation science. I commend the team at ZSI for their dedication and vision in establishing this centre, which will undoubtedly play a vital role in safeguarding our natural heritage for future generations."

 

Speaking about the centre Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, Director, ZSI said, "The establishment of the Centre for Wildlife Forensics and Conservation Genomics at ZSI is a significant milestone in our commitment to wildlife conservation and the preservation of India's natural heritage. This state-of-the-art facility will play a pivotal role in addressing wildlife crime, a growing threat to our ecosystems. By integrating the latest advancements in genomic technology and forensic science, we are not only enhancing our capability to trace and prosecute wildlife criminals but also setting new standards for conservation research in the region. I am pleased to appoint Dr. Mukesh Thakur, Scientist D, as the Coordinator of this centre. Dr. Thakur has been instrumental in the conceptualisation and establishment of this facility. His deep expertise in wildlife forensics and familiarity with the latest tools and technologies make him exceptionally well-suited to lead this initiative. Under his supervision, I am confident that this centre will become a cornerstone in our collective efforts to protect endangered species and combat illegal wildlife trade."

 

This event marks a significant step forward in ZSI’s mission to leverage advanced science and technology for wildlife conservation and crime prevention.

The establishment of this centre underscores ZSI’s commitment to protecting India’s rich biodiversity through innovative research and strategic partnerships. By providing critical forensic support, the centre will play a pivotal role in ensuring that wildlife crimes are effectively investigated and prosecuted, contributing to the broader goals of conservation and the protection of endangered species.

The Centre for Wildlife Forensics and Conservation Genomics, established with a special financial grant from the MoEFCC, is a landmark facility aimed at strengthening the fight against wildlife crime in India. This centre is envisioned as a critical resource in the investigation and resolution of wildlife crime cases, providing law enforcement agencies with the necessary scientific tools to track, identify, and prosecute those involved in illegal wildlife trade.

 

Salient Features and Significance

 

1. Addressing Wildlife Crime:
   • The centre is strategically designed to address the growing threat of wildlife crime in India and Southeast Asia. It will provide precise genetic analysis to identify species from confiscated materials, thereby aiding in the rapid and accurate prosecution of wildlife criminals.
   • By developing regional genetic signatures for highly trafficked species such as pangolins, big cats, and elephants, the centre will enhance the ability to trace the origin of these species, which is crucial for dismantling illegal wildlife trade networks.
2. High-Performance Cluster Computing:
   • Equipped with a high-performance cluster computing system, the centre has the capability to handle and analyze large genomic datasets efficiently. This is particularly important in forensic investigations that require the processing of extensive genetic information to draw conclusive results.
   • The computing infrastructure ensures that data-intensive tasks, such as whole genome sequencing and metagenomic analysis, can be conducted swiftly, significantly reducing the time required to generate forensic evidence.
3. Sample Processing Capacity and Infrastructure:
   • The lab is fully equipped with the latest technology, including four PCR machines and a real-time PCR system, which allows for high-throughput genetic analysis.
   • The centre stands as one of the most advanced facilities of its kind in the region, capable of addressing the demands of high-volume forensic investigations and genetic analysis.
   • The facility is supported by a 24x7 power backup system, ensuring uninterrupted operation and the ability to maintain continuous analysis workflows, which is vital for time-sensitive forensic cases.

 

4. Regional and International Collaboration:
   • The centre will act as a hub for collaboration, coordinating with other ZSI regional centres and existing forensic laboratories in India and Southeast Asia. This networked approach will facilitate the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and best practices, thereby enhancing the collective forensic capabilities across the region

 

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