Report Example
Report Example
MANAGEMENT.
KULUR, MANGALORE.
YENEPOYA (DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY)
AN INTERNSHIP REPORT ON
IMPLEMENTATION OF FORENSIC SCIENCE
IN REAL WORLD SCENARIOS
SUBMITTED BY
P. BHANU PRATHAP
23MSFS25
SUBMITTED TO
YIASCM
SEPTEMBER 2024
STUDENT DECLARATION
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CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the Project Report on “IMPLEMENTATION OF FORENSIC
SCIENCE IN REAL WORLD SCENARIOS” submitted in partial fulfilment of the
requirements for the award of the Masters of Forensic Science during 2023-2025, THE
YENEPOYA INSTITUTE OF ARTS, SCIENCE, COMMERCE, AND MANAGEMENT
KULUR, (YIASCM), Mangalore by Mr. P. BHANU PRATHAP, Reg.No:23MSFS25 and that
no part of this report has been submitted for the award of any degree, diploma, fellowship or
similar titles or prizes and that the work has not been published in any journal or magazine.
APPROVED
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PERFACE
An internship is a stepping stone for any student to come out and face the professional world
and to see the way it works, operates and to see the way it works, operates and to help as a
foundation for the student to get an experience in the same. My internship is on
“implementation of forensic science in real world scenarios.” This is a great experience for me
that I have done my internship from State forensic science laboratory, Verna, Goa. The present
internship report is the outcome of the internship program given to me by Yenepoya Institute
of Arts, Science, Commerce and Management which was being done by me at State forensic
science laboratory, Verna, Goa. The main objective of this internship is to get an exposure and
to study our subject more widely with practical knowledge and experience with subject experts
and help me seeing through the organization.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I am also thankful to MS. MEGHNA, PA OF LABORATORY, for giving their support and
cooperation in doing my INTERNSHIP project.
My sincere gratitude to PROF.(DR) REJECT PAUL M.P, HOD of forensic science department.
My sincere gratitude to MS. ARSHA AJITH A. K (Faculty of forensic science) for her support
on my INTERNSHIP project.
I am also thankful to all the interns who were with me. With the support of SFSL VERNA,
GOA, I gained a handsome work experience and exposure that will help me to prove myself in
future.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report is the outcome of my 30 days internship undertaken by me at SFSL, GOA which
helped me to gain knowledge about the structure and functions of the forensic department and
to understand and learn the practical aspects of an investigation. For better understanding, the
entire work has the following aspects. For easy understanding, the entire work is divided into
5 chapters.
Chapter I:
The first chapter discuss about the Functions of state forensic science laboratory.
Chapter II:
Chapter III:
Chapter IV:
This chapter is the daily report of the day-to-day activities undertaken during the internship.
Chapter V:
Chapter VI:
Chapter VII:
List outs the links, references, which I referred for completing my internship report.
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TABLE OF CONTENT
I INTRODUCTION 1-5
IV DAILY REPORTS 8- 15
V LEARNING OUTCOME 16
VI CONCLUSION 17
VII BIBILOGRAPHY 18
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CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
The Goa State Forensic Science Laboratory (GSFSL) plays a critical role in supporting the
criminal justice system by providing scientific analysis of physical evidence collected from
crime scenes. Established to assist law enforcement agencies, it aims to deliver accurate,
reliable, and timely forensic services to aid in investigations and legal proceedings. GSFSL
operates under the Directorate of Forensic Science, functioning as a state-of-the-art facility that
follows strict protocols to maintain the integrity of evidence while adhering to international
standards. The laboratory is equipped with various divisions specialized in different fields of
forensic science, including serology, toxicology, biology, chemistry, physics, ballistics, and
DNA profiling. By employing a range of scientific methods, the GSFSL plays a pivotal role in
solving crimes related to homicides, sexual assaults, drug offenses, arson, accidents, and
cybercrimes.
The primary function of GSFSL is the examination and analysis of physical evidence from
crime scenes. This includes biological evidence (blood, saliva, semen), chemical substances
(drugs, explosives, poisons), and trace materials (fibres, gunshot residues, diatoms).
The laboratory generates scientific reports based on the analysis of evidence. These reports are
essential for court cases, serving as expert opinions to help judges, juries, and investigators
understand the scientific findings related to the evidence.
Scientists and experts from GSFSL often serve as expert witnesses in court, explaining their
findings and providing interpretations that can help clarify the significance of forensic evidence
in criminal cases.
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1.1.4. Crime Scene Investigation Assistance
GSFSL experts provide on-site assistance during crime scene investigations, especially in cases
that require specialized knowledge for evidence collection, such as bloodstain pattern analysis,
trace evidence collection, or ballistic trajectory reconstruction.
The laboratory also conducts training programs for law enforcement personnel, helping them
stay updated on the latest forensic techniques and procedures. This ensures that investigators
are well-prepared to collect and preserve evidence effectively.
The laboratory works closely with various law enforcement agencies, including the police,
judiciary, and government departments, to provide scientific support in criminal investigations.
This division deals with the identification and analysis of biological fluids such as blood, saliva,
semen, and tissue samples. It plays a crucial role in violent crime investigations, including
homicides and sexual assaults. The team also assists in determining paternity or victim-suspect
connections through blood grouping and DNA profiling.
Responsible for analyzing drugs, alcohol, poisons, and other toxic substances, this division is
crucial in cases involving drug overdoses, poisoning, and substance abuse. They also work on
postmortem toxicology to detect the presence of toxins in deceased individuals.
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1.2.3. Chemistry Division
This division deals with the analysis of chemicals, including explosives, arson residues, and
adulterants in food or drugs. It assists in uncovering the chemical composition of substances to
provide leads in criminal investigations.
The Ballistics division focuses on the examination of firearms, bullets, and gunshot residues.
This division is key in cases involving shootings, armed robberies, and violent crimes involving
firearms.
This division is responsible for the analysis of digital evidence from computers, mobile devices,
and other digital storage media. In cases of cybercrime, fraud, or data breaches, the Cyber
Forensics division helps trace electronic evidence.
The Physics division handles the examination of physical evidence like glass, metals, fibres,
and paints. It also deals with specialized instrumentation to perform precise analyses.
This division is tasked with the extraction and analysis of DNA from biological samples to
create profiles for victim identification, paternity disputes, or linking suspects to crime scenes.
The primary role of GSFSL is to assist law enforcement in solving crimes by scientifically
analyzing evidence and providing conclusive results that can lead to the identification of
suspects or the exoneration of the innocent.
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By providing expert reports and testimonies, GSFSL plays a vital role in judicial proceedings,
helping to clarify complex scientific evidence for court purposes and supporting the fair
dispensation of justice.
The laboratory ensures that investigations are based on factual, scientific findings rather than
assumptions or circumstantial evidence, thus reinforcing the objectivity and accuracy of
criminal investigations.
As certain types of evidence require specialized analysis (e.g., toxicology, DNA profiling),
GSFSL provides expertise in these areas, offering capabilities that local police forces may not
possess.
The laboratory also plays a role in public safety by providing analyses that help in drug abuse
prevention, food safety, environmental testing, and accident investigations. Their findings
sometimes guide policy decisions related to public health and safety. The Goa State Forensic
Science Laboratory is an essential part of the state’s criminal justice infrastructure. Its roles in
crime investigation, expert testimony, and support to law enforcement and judicial bodies
contribute significantly to ensuring justice is served. By employing advanced technologies and
specialized divisions, the GSFSL helps maintain the credibility and integrity of forensic science
in Goa.
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CHAPTER II
As per the syllabi of III semester, I have completed 30 days of internship at Goa City.
2.1 PURPOSE
The purpose of the internship was to get an exposure and to study our subject more widely with
practical knowledge and experience with subject experts. The main objective is to get a
practical knowledge and expert classes on:
4. To get the knowledge on the different types of crimes and how evidences are examined.
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CHAPTER III
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CHAPTER IV
DAILY REPORT
4.1 DAY - 1
On my first day of internship, I reported at Goa SFSL. The laboratory consists of different
departments such as biology, serology, chemistry, fingerprint, toxicology, ballistics, cyber etc.
This FSL consists of more than 35 staffs where there is a director general of FSL followed by
Assistant director general. On the very first day I was allotted to the forensic Biology and
serology division. I got an interaction section with the assistant director general of
serology/biology division as well as with the senior scientific officer from the department of
Forensic toxicology where they had explained about the scope of forensic science. On top of
that they provided me with a comprehensive overview of the laboratory's operations, safety
protocols, and procedures. I also had the opportunity to meet with laboratory staff, including
forensic scientists and technicians. They explained their roles and responsibilities, and I was
impressed by their expertise and enthusiasm. The session concluded at 5:15 pm.
4.2 DAY – 2
On second day I had directly reported at the Forensic Biology/serology division. On this day
they have asked me to go through the files and make a data entry for the month of September.
Around 50 case files had entered the computer. Later, 30 slides were prepared for the blood
group examination of dried blood samples using Absorption Elution Method. Today, I observed
blood extraction from dried blood samples using sticking method. The lab assistant explained
the importance of blood analysis in forensic investigations and walked me through the
extraction process. I learned about blood grouping from liquid blood samples and its analysis
and assisted in preparing blood samples for analysis. The session was concluded at 5:05 pm.
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4.3 DAY - 3
On 30 August 2024 at 10am, Today’s session focused on the role of saliva in sexual assault
cases, where saliva can be found on the victim’s body or clothing. We learned the procedure
for collecting and preserving saliva evidence and the importance of avoiding contamination
during collection. Today, we were taken to a mock crime scene to observe how biological
evidence is collected at the scene itself. We were given kits and shown how to properly collect,
package, and label evidence while maintaining the chain of custody. This practical exposure
gave us valuable insight into how serology fits into the broader forensic process.
4.4 DAY - 4
On 02 September, they allotted me to Mrs. Shimola lab assistant; she gave me a brief
introduction about the different branches of Forensic science. She then taught the role of a
scientific officer which include issuing reports and deposing evidence before courts whenever
summoned, repairing legal statements, analyzing the scene of crime etc. Then the officers at
the DFSL shared their experience as a scientific officer and the challenges faced during the
crime scene evidence collection and also how they used their expertise knowledge in solving
different crimes. They also made me familiarize with the laboratory equipment. The session
concluded by giving a gist of competitive examinations and different job aspects in the field.
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4.5 DAY - 5
On September 03, the session started with the importance of biological evidence. Ma’am
explained why biological evidence is conclusive evidence as compared to physical evidence
which is corroborative. She then explained about the collection of biological evidence from a
crime and about the duties of the one who is collecting it i.e., a licensed medical practitioner.
The importance of mitochondrial DNA and their role in disaster victim identification. Hair
collection and their packaging methods were also discussed in this session, Role of maggots in
the estimation of time of death and time since death were also taught. The session concluded
at 5:30 pm.
4.6 DAY - 6
At 10 am, reported at State Forensic Laboratory. She had given a brief introduction about the
importance of blood in crime scene and how it will be collected and preserve without
contamination in blood evidence in scene of occurrence, then she told us whole steps involved
the examination of blood and their further procedure of confirmation test. Subsequently, she
explained one double murder case and their importance of blood sample and their showed as
video of how to take blood sample. After the video she gave one assignment watch the web
series of forensic files and choose any case and make the presentation of case. The session
concluded at 5pm.
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4.7 DAY – 7
At 10am on 05th September, toxicology and its important aspects were discussed class began
by discussing about the illegal drug which had been caught in Goa city. The major significance
and techniques of forensic toxicology were also discussed. Ma’am then taught how the samples
such as blood, viscera and urine are collected and preserved from the crime scene for
toxicological analysis. She also given an idea about the classification and characteristics of
drugs. She also explained the process of how drug cravings happen. The class concluded by
giving an awareness regarding drug abuse.
4.8 DAY - 8
On 06th September at 10:00 am I reported in SFSL, I was trained in identifying body fluids,
such as blood, semen, and saliva, using biochemical and immunological tests. Conducted Acid
Phosphatase (AP) tests for semen identification and Phenolphthalein tests for blood detection.
The session ended at 1:30 pm.
4.9 DAY - 9
On this day, I got a class on Forensic Chemistry. The session brushed up through the definitions
of fire, different types of fire, fire triangle, ingredients of fire etc. The main difference between
the fire and arson were also taught. Later, discussed about the different fire patterns including
char, lines of demarcation, pour pattern, hourglass pattern and so on. Then discussed about the
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different fuels and their day-to-day uses. Ma’am also taught us about the common fuels
encountered in arson cases and their flame formation.
4.10 DAY - 10
On this day at SFSL, I had a small session on digital evidence and cybercrime prevention.
Digital evidence collection and preservation along with the causes of cybercrime were taught.
A brief explanation about different cybercrime like child pornography, phishing, unethical
hacking etc were taught. Then the officers at the DFSL shared their experience as a scientific
officer and the challenges faced during the crime scene evidence’s collection and how they
used their expertise knowledge in solving different crimes. They also made us familiarize with
the laboratory equipment. The session concluded by giving an overall aspect of digital evidence
in scene of crime. The session was taken by the expert from the field of Cyber forensic.
4.11 DAY - 11
On this day I went to the Director general of SFSL at 10:00 am. There the fingerprint expert
was allotted to take the session. The session started with a brief introduction about what is
forensic science and their applications, where it will be applicable and solve the crimes. This
day was dedicated to understanding the fundamentals of fingerprint patterns. I was taught about
the three major fingerprint patterns: loops, whorls, and arches, and how each can vary subtly
between individuals. I observed how fingerprint experts collect latent prints from crime scenes
using various techniques, including powder dusting and chemical methods. The careful process
of lifting and preserving these prints was emphasized, as it is critical to ensure the integrity of
the evidence for later comparison and analysis. Subsequently, I was introduced to the
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Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS), a powerful tool used to compare
fingerprints found at crime scenes with a database of known prints. The forensic experts
explained how the system helps in matching prints by analysing minute details, such as ridge
endings and bifurcations.
4.12 DAY - 12
On 12th September the lab assistant taught me how to analyse Saliva using Lugol’s stain,
confirmatory test for saliva and Radial diffusion method using agar-agar. I assisted her in
analysing the saliva samples as well. The session concluded at 5:15 pm.
4.13 DAY - 13
This day revolved around understanding various biological fluids, their significance in crime
scene investigations, and the techniques used to detect their presence. We were shown
demonstrations of preliminary tests used to detect blood, saliva, and semen, such as Benzidine
test for blood and Agar-agar test for saliva. I learned how these tests are crucial for determining
the presence of fluids before proceeding to confirmatory tests. The session concluded at 5:15
pm.
4.14 DAY - 14
Today, we were introduced to diatom analysis, an essential component of drowning cases. The
experts explained how diatoms, microscopic algae, are analysed to determine whether a person
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had drowned in a specific body of water. We learned the basic morphology of diatoms and how
they vary in different geographical locations, which aids in forensic investigation.
4.15 DAY – 15
I spent the day learning about proper case documentation and maintaining the chain of custody
for forensic evidence. This process ensures that evidence remains uncontaminated and is
handled according to legal protocols. Documentation forms, labelling of evidence, and
maintaining accurate logs were discussed in detail. Real case files were shown to give us
practical insights into how meticulous documentation is critical for court presentations.
4.16 DAY – 16
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4.17 DAY – 17
We got a lecture focused on the practical aspects of evidence handling, labelling, and
documentation. Ensuring accuracy in handling, documenting, and storing biological evidence
was emphasized, particularly in long-term investigations. We spent the day performing diatom
extraction and analysis in groups. This was a hands-on session where we practiced extracting
diatoms from mock samples, preparing slides, and identifying diatoms under the microscope.
4.18 DAY – 18
We discussed the collection of saliva in postmortem cases and how it can be relevant for
determining the cause of death. We reviewed a case where saliva was found on the victim’s
body, providing crucial evidence that helped narrow down the suspects. A review of various
homicide cases showed how critical blood evidence can be in linking suspects to crime scenes.
We studied the process of collecting, preserving, and analyzing blood samples in these cases.
We reviewed how forensic serologists prepare their reports for court trials. The day involved
analyzing the structure of a forensic report, which includes test results, interpretations, and
expert opinions. We also saw how serologists present their findings during cross-examinations.
4.19 DAY – 19
Each of us was assigned a real case involving biological evidence. We had to analyse the
evidence, write a detailed report, and present our findings to a panel of experts. This final
presentation allowed us to demonstrate our understanding of the entire serology process. The
final day involved a reflection on the past month’s activities. We had a feedback session with
the supervisors, who discussed our performance and areas for improvement. We also received
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certificates of completion and were encouraged to continue our studies in forensic serology, as
it is a growing and essential field in criminal justice. This 30-day internship provided an
invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the Serology Division, enhancing our
practical and theoretical knowledge in forensic science. The exposure to diatom analysis, blood
and saliva testing, and proper case documentation enriched our understanding of how
biological evidence is processed, preserved, and analysed in real-world cases. This was the last
day of my internship, at the SFSL. The session concluded at 5:00 pm. The entire internship
period was fruitful experience which helped me to gain some practical knowledge in this field.
The section was successfully concluded with his blessings and wishes.
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CHAPTER V
LEARNING OUTCOMES
During the 30 days internship period with the experts, they helped us both in theory and
practical aspects of police, laws, and forensic science. I understood about the procedure to
follow reaching the crime scene, types of evidences and methods to collect samples, to package
and forward evidences, to know the responsibility of a scientific officer. I developed the ability
to communicate forensic findings through reports and oral presentations. This enhanced my
ability to explain scientific concepts clearly and concisely, a skill essential when testifying in
court. I engaged in discussions with forensic experts, allowing me to develop communication
skills for interacting with experienced professionals in this field. Interning at the Goa State
Forensic Science Laboratory offers a comprehensive learning experience that covers the entire
forensic process from evidence collection to laboratory analysis and court presentation. I
emerge with practical skills in forensic analysis, critical thinking, and an understanding of
ethical responsibilities, all of which prepared for a career in forensic science. The entire
internship period was an effective experience which helped me to gain some practical
knowledge in this fled as I got an opportunity to closely examine real crime cases.
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CHAPTER VI
CONCLUSION
The 30 days internship at SFSL was a good exposure for us to understand the importance of
Forensic officers and their role in each case. They taught about how the laboratory works and
how to take care of every record. They taught every important section for each case and what
all procedures to follow. Through their busy schedule they helped me to learn and discuss about
different cases. They made to understand about different crimes happening around us and how
to perceive each crime differently. The internship at the Goa State Forensic Science Laboratory
(GSFSL)was a transformative learning experience that provided a deep and practical
understanding of forensic science. Over the course of 30 days, I gained valuable insights into
various forensic disciplines, including serology, biology, diatom testing, and case
documentation. The hands-on experience in analyzing biological evidence such as blood and
saliva, combined with exposure to advanced forensic technologies and methods, significantly
enhanced my technical skills and theoretical knowledge. This internship also helped me
understand the critical role that forensic science plays in criminal investigations and the justice
system. From the meticulous collection and preservation of evidence to the scientific
examination and courtroom presentation, I witnessed how forensic work contributes to solving
crimes and ensuring that justice is served. Through interaction with experienced forensic
professionals and collaboration across different forensic divisions, I developed strong
analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. The exposure to real-world cases,
combined with the ethical and legal standards upheld at GSFSL, prepared me to approach
forensic work with precision, responsibility, and professionalism. Overall, this internship has
provided me with a solid foundation to pursue a career in forensic science, equipped with the
knowledge, skills, and confidence to contribute meaningfully to the field.
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CHAPTER VII
BIBLIOGRAPHY
1) Live News Goa. (2023, August 5). THIS IS HOW GOA’S FORENSIC SCIENCE
LABORATORY FUNCTIONS. News for Positivity! | Latest English and Konkani News | Live
News Goa TV | Goa’s First & Only Positive News Channel. https://livenewsgoa.com/this-is-
how-goas-forensic-science-laboratory-functions/
2) Goa University, D.D. Kosambi School of Social Sciences and Behavioral Studies, &
Social Work Programme. (2024). Report on field visit to Goa State Forensic Laboratory, Goa
Police, Verna, and Forensic Laboratory, National Forensic Science University, Goa Campus,
Curti Ponda. In Report.
https://www.unigoa.ac.in/uploads/confg_docs/20241007.051630~SW_DDKSSSBS_19Sep24
.pdf
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ANNEXURES
For completion of my 30 days mandatory internship, first I requested the college to send an
Email regarding my internship stating clearly where and why I needed to do this internship at
the concerned institution. The approval letter was issued by the GFSL, Goa. Then, I had
submitted my Adhaar card as well as my college ID proof to do the internship at the specific
Forensic science laboratory. Later, they accepted me as an intern under the biology/serology
division to do an internship at Verna City Forensic Science Laboratory, Goa.
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