Department of Information and Public Relations

Press Release No. 89/24

LANDMARK WORKSHOP ON ADVANCED CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION AND MANAGEMENT

The Directorate of Forensic Sciences, in collaboration with Kwicksoft, proudly orchestrated an unprecedented two-day workshop centred on Crime Scene Investigation and Management. This initiative, meticulously tailored for Investigating Officers (IOs) hailing from every district of Meghalaya, intricately explored the cutting-edge techniques and technologies indispensable for modern-day forensic inquiries. More than 30 IOs from across the state attended the workshop.

With the introduction of the three new criminal laws, the workshop served as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role played by meticulous scientific management in dispensing justice to victims and ensuring the upholding of the rule of law. Sessions, conducted with meticulous precision, navigated the labyrinth of scientific crime scene investigation, shedding light on the imperative process of collecting, cataloguing, and preserving diverse forms of evidence, including the increasingly prevalent digital artefacts.

Inaugurating the event with solemn gravitas, the Director of Forensic Sciences underscored the sacrosanct nature of preserving crime scenes and the inherent evidentiary value enshrined within every trace. Moreover, the Director spotlighted the Directorate's latest acquisition: a Mobile Forensic Crime Scene Van, staffed by a cadre of highly skilled postgraduates in MSc Forensic Science. This state-of-the-art vehicle, poised to swiftly respond to crimes warranting sentences exceeding seven years, stands as a testament to the Directorate's unwavering commitment to providing expeditious and proficient forensic support. It's noteworthy that requisition for the same is meticulously channelled through the Superintendent of Police (SP) in each respective district, ensuring seamless coordination and deployment.

Beyond theoretical discourse, the workshop facilitated immersive, hands-on training sessions with avant-garde scientific crime scene equipment, endowing participating IOs with practical acumen paramount for real-world applications. Furthermore, the Directorate orchestrated captivating crime scene simulations and demonstrations, imbuing participants with invaluable experiential insights and fortifying their forensic prowess.

A notable highlight of the event was the Inter-District Crime Scene Investigation Competition, a spirited contest culminating in the West Jaintia Hills District clinching the coveted top honor, with the CID Unit emerging as worthy runners-up. This competitive forum not only showcased the mettle and ingenuity of participating districts but also fostered a spirit of camaraderie and professional excellence, underscoring the collective endeavour toward the pursuit of justice.

Each diligent participant was duly conferred with a certificate of training, emblematic of their steadfast commitment to advancing the frontiers of forensic investigation and safeguarding the sanctity of justice within our state.

The Directorate of Forensic Sciences remains steadfast in its dedication to the relentless pursuit of truth and justice, and this landmark workshop serves as a testament to our unwavering resolve in this noble endeavour.

Press Release No. 90/24

LAUNCH OF TALENT IDENTIFICATION AND ELITE PATHWAY PROGRAMS 2024-25 AND FELICITATION OF STANDOUT MEGH

The Department of Sports and Youth Affairs held an event in North Eastern Hill University, Shillong, to celebrate the potential of Meghalaya Youth across the fields of sports and cultural excellence. Over 500 youth from across the state were invited as part of various schemes and initiatives managed by the Department.

The First initiative was the launch of the new editions of the Talent Identification Program and the Elite Pathway Program (EPP), under the STAR Program, in collaboration with the Meghalaya State Olympic Association (MSOA). To date, 14,500 participants have been tested in the Talent Identification Program using scientific methods to uncover high potential athletes. Through the EPP, 200 athletes underwent a year long training program with App-based training and Quarterly in-person camps. Under the editions of 2024-25, 10,000 more participants, some as young as 6 years old, shall be tested under the Talent identification program, and 200 more athletes will undergo the 2nd EPP Camp. The Event also highlighted the training of the Super Elite Program, a cohort of 11 athletes with High-Potential to become National and International athletes in their respective sports.

The Event also awarded Cash Awards to athletes that have won medals in sporting events. 297 Athletes and Coaches received Rs. 68 Lakhs in Total. More such events shall be held by the Department to ensure that all medal winners from Meghalaya receive Cash Awards under the Scheme.

Further, the first group of Sports Scholarships were awarded to athletes this year. Their Scholarship shall be in place from April 2024 to March 2025, receiving a monthly amount based on their scheme document released earlier. The next set of applications for 2025-26 shall close on the 1st of March, 2025.

The Event also felicitated the Meghalaya contingent from the 7th North East Youth Festival, who made the State proud. This included winners of the Rock Band Event, and 1st Runners Up for 6 other events. The Folk Song Troupe from East Jaintia Hills and the Rock Band from West Khasi Hills also performed at the event.

The Event was attended by the Honourable Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma, Chief Secretary, Shri D.P. Wahlang (IAS), and Director, Sports and Youth Affairs, Smt. Isawanda Laloo (IAS), who spoke about the potential of Meghalaya Youth and the initiatives the Government have in place to facilitate their growth across various fields. Shri John F. Kharshiing, working President, MSOA, was also present.

Co-Owner of North East United F.C. (NEUFC) and reputed actor Shri John Abraham also attended the event, and motivated the audience with his presence. It was also announced that an in-principle agreement was made between NEUFC and the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs for the development of football in the Meghalaya. Land in Mawkhanu, East Khasi Hills, under the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs, shall be allocated in part to NEUFC who shall construct a state-of-the-art Residential Football Academy at the location for the training of NEUFC teams and local aspiring football stars. Further Diligence as per Government norms are in process to make this a reality.