Dhaka: Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Abu Zafar Md. Zahid Hossain has announced plans to establish an international-standard DNA laboratory in the capital, Dhaka. This move is aimed at enhancing forensic capabilities in response to the growing demand for DNA testing.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made this announcement during a meeting of the Forensic DNA Laboratory Advisory Council at the National Science and Technology Complex in Agargaon. He highlighted the need to upgrade existing DNA screening laboratories in all divisional cities into fully functional DNA profiling laboratories. The current forensic DNA laboratory equipment, over 15 years old, has led to reduced efficiency, impacting the accuracy and quality of sample analyses.
Minister Zahid emphasized the necessity of modern equipment to ensure precise and reliable results. He also called for improved coordination through the creation of an integrated national database under the DNA Laboratory Management Directorate. This database will aim to store and manage all forensic DNA data within a unified system, enhancing efficiency and accessibility.
The country’s first national forensic DNA profiling laboratory was established at Dhaka Medical College Hospital in 2006, followed by the creation of DNA screening laboratories in eight medical colleges nationwide. The minister also discussed the need for manpower, database development, legal reforms, and the determination of service fees for DNA testing during the meeting.