Development of Protocol for DNA Profiling (Identification) and Repository of Personnel of Armed Forces

Ministry of Defence 22-April, 2013

Armed Forces Medical Research Committee (AFMRC) approved a pilot project (2012-2014) titled “Development of Protocol for DNA Profiling (Identification) and Repository of Personnel of Armed Forces”. This pilot project is in progress at Armed Forces Medical College, Pune. The objectives of the project are to devise a protocol for collection, preservation and transportation of blood samples of the soldiers, maintain absolute accuracy in personal information and tagging of specimen and to devise protocol for procedure for identifying service personnel from any fragment of body tissue. 

Army has a well established procedure / system for identification of a soldier in the forward / battle zone. A solder is either part of a sub unit (section, platoon etc.) deployed on the border and every one recognizes him due to his physical attributes, or he moves out with a companion. Never a soldier is left alone in these areas. In addition every personnel has two metallic discs, one tied to his neck and other on the wrist. These discs have his Army Number engraved for identification. 

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Anurag Singh Thakurin Lok Sabha today.