Expert Talk on Forensic Anthropology & Archaeology at NSIT – 27 November 2024

Date of Visit: November 27, 2024

Location: Narnarayan Shastri Institute of Technology (NSIT), Jetalpur, Ahmedabad

Narnarayan Shastri Institute of Technology (NSIT) organized an Expert Talk on Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology, featuring Dr. William Belcher, Associate Professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, United States, as the keynote speaker. Dr. Belcher, a board-certified forensic anthropologist and archaeologist, is renowned for his expertise in environmental archaeology and zooarchaeology.

Session Highlights:
Dr. Belcher delivered an enlightening talk titled “Forensic Archaeology and the Identification of World War II Mass Graves in the South Pacific Ocean.” His session offered a comprehensive understanding of the role of forensic archaeology in identifying soldiers classified as “Killed in Action (KIA)” or “Missing in Action (MIA)” during World War II.

He detailed the process of excavating human remains, particularly from mass graves, and discussed various types of graves, along with the methods and considerations involved in their excavation. Dr. Belcher outlined the following approaches used to identify skeletal remains:

  1. Anthropological Method: Determining the age, sex, and stature of individuals.
  2. Odontological Method: Analyzing dental history and comparing records.
  3. Material Evidence Analysis: Examining physical evidence found alongside skeletal remains.
  4. DNA Analysis: Utilizing mitochondrial DNA (MtDNA) and nuclear DNA for identification.

The talk also included detailed case studies showcasing instances where human skeletal remains were excavated and identified successfully, emphasizing the practical application of these methods.

 

Audience and Participation:
The event was attended by NSIT’s Principal, Dr. Nikunj Brahmbhatt, and the dedicated faculty of the forensic science department. Students from both Master’s and Bachelor’s programs actively participated, gaining valuable insights and inspiration from Dr. Belcher’s expertise and career journey.

Impact and Takeaway:
Dr. Belcher’s talk not only enhanced the understanding of forensic anthropology and archaeology among students but also shed light on its application to historical investigations. The event served as a significant platform for aspiring forensic professionals to learn about the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in solving historical mysteries and addressing humanitarian concerns.

Highlights in Pictures

Conclusion:

The Expert Talk was a resounding success, leaving the attendees motivated and well-informed about the relevance and advancements in forensic anthropology and archaeology. NSIT remains committed to organizing such impactful events that foster academic growth and professional development.

Date: 28.11.2024

Prepared By:
Dr. Harjeet Singh
Asst. Professor, NSIT-IFSCS

NATIONAL FORENSIC SCIENCE UNIVERSITY, GANDHINAGAR VISIT to 26th November 2024

Date of Visit: 26th November 2024
Institute: Narnarayan Shastri Institute of Technology – Institute of Forensic Science & Criminal Studies (NSIT-IFSCS), Jetalpur
Course & Semester: M.Sc. Forensic Science, Semester II
Number of Students: 28
Venue: Department of Forensic Biology, National Forensic Science University, Gandhinagar

The objective of the Visit:

The purpose of this educational visit was to provide students with practical exposure to Forensic Anthropology and Forensic Odontology. The visit aimed to enhance their understanding of skeletal analysis, human identification, and forensic dental examination, which are crucial in forensic investigations.

 

 

Details of the Post-Mortem Autopsy:

  • Decedent: Identified male body
  • Cause of Death: Accidental Death due to Brain haemorrhage
  • Types of Haemorrhage Observed: Subarachnoid haemorrhage

Key Learning Areas & Observations:

 

Forensic Anthropology:

Identification of human skeletal remains based on skull and bone structures.

Age, sex, and stature estimation using skeletal features.

Trauma analysis and its forensic significance in medico-legal cases.

 

Forensic Odontology:

Examination of dental remains for human identification.

Understanding bite mark analysis in forensic casework.

Dental records and their role in disaster victim identification (DVI).

 

Practical Exposure:

Hands-on experience in skeletal reconstruction and skull examination.

Demonstration of forensic dental techniques for age estimation.

Analysis of case studies involving forensic anthropology and odontology.

Conclusion:

The visit to the National Forensic Science University, Gandhinagar provided an excellent opportunity for students to gain practical insights into forensic anthropology and odontology. It helped bridge the gap between theoretical learning and real-world forensic applications, enhancing their analytical and observational skills in forensic science.

Acknowledgment:

We extend our sincere gratitude to the faculty and experts at NFSU, Gandhinagar, for their informative session and hands-on demonstrations.

Prepared By:

Dr. Harjeet Singh

Asst. Professor

NSIT-IFSCS

B. J. Medical College for Postmortem and Legal Procedures Observation Visit on – 23th March 2024

Date: 23rd March 2024

 

Venue: B. J. Medical College, Ahmedabad

 

Participants:

– Students of M.Sc. Forensic Science semester-2, from Narnarayan Shastri Institute of Technology – Institute of Forensic Science and Cyber Security

– Faculty Members: Mr. Aaromal Venugopal, Mr. Anant Kumar Patil, Ms. Mandvi Singh,      Ms. Ayushi Sharma.

 

Purpose of Visit:

The visit to B. J. Medical College was organised as part of an educational initiative to provide students with practical exposure to postmortem procedures and the legal aspects associated with them as a part of their Forensic Medicine paper. The objectives of the visit were to enhance understanding and knowledge in Forensic Medicine and its application in legal proceedings.

 

Activities and Observations:

  1. Introduction to Postmortem Procedures: The visit commenced with an introductory session by the medical staff at B. J. Medical College, where students were briefed about the various steps involved in conducting a postmortem examination. This included the importance of forensic evidence collection, identification of cause of death, and documentation of findings.
  2. Observation of Postmortem: Students were given the opportunity to observe an actual postmortem examination under the supervision of experienced forensic pathologists. They witnessed the systematic approach followed in examining the deceased, including external and internal examinations, organ inspection, and sample collection for further analysis.
  3. Legal Procedures and Documentation: Following the postmortem, students were guided through the legal procedures involved in documenting and reporting findings from the examination. This included understanding the significance of accurate record-keeping, maintaining chain of custody for evidence, and preparing reports for court proceedings.
  4. Interaction with Experts: Students had the chance to interact with forensic experts, pathologists, and legal professionals during the visit. This provided valuable insights into the interdisciplinary collaboration required in forensic investigations and the role of forensic science in the justice system.
  5. Q&A Session: A question and answer session was conducted, allowing students to clarify doubts and seek further information on specific aspects of postmortem examinations and legal procedures.
  6. Visit to the Forensic Medicine Museum: After the postmortem visit the students were taken to the Forensic Medicine Museum of B.J. Medical College, where the models, diagrammatic representations and all the understanding aids related to Forensic Medicine are shown.

Conclusion:

The visit to B. J. Medical College for observing postmortem procedures and legal aspects was highly informative and beneficial for the students of Narnarayan Shastri Institute of Technology – Institute of Forensic Science and Cyber Security. It provided a hands-on learning experience, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical applications in forensic science and law. Such experiential learning opportunities are essential in preparing students for careers in forensic science and related fields. Overall, the visit was a success in meeting its educational objectives and fostering a deeper understanding of forensic science and its role in the justice system among the participating students.

Lord Ganesh Visarjan: (23nd Sep 2023)

Ganesh Visarjan, the immersion of Lord Ganesha idols in water bodies, marks the culmination of the Ten-day Ganesh Chaturthi festival. At NSIT, we believe in embracing cultural traditions while also being environmentally conscious.

 

  • Program Highlights:
  1. Cultural Performances – Students presented cultural performances, including dances and songs, celebrating the spirit of Lord Ganesha.
  2. Participation and Engagement – The Ganesh Visarjan event witnessed enthusiastic participation from Honorable Principal Prof. Dr. Nikunj Bhrambhatt, faculty, staff with students. It provided an opportunity for students from different cultural backgrounds to come together and appreciate the significance of the ritual while emphasizing environmental responsibility.
  3. Religious Rituals– The immersion ceremony included the chanting of prayers and bhajans, invoking Lord Ganesha’s blessings.

 

In conclusion, The Ganesh Visarjan event at NSIT was a harmonious blend of tradition and environmental responsibility. It served as a treatment for our commitment to celebrating cultural diversity while respecting the environment. We remain dedicated to promoting eco-friendly practices during festivals and fostering cultural understanding within our diverse students.

National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar Visit (6th Sep 2023)

Educational tours are a valuable aspect of the learning experience, providing students with the opportunity to gain real-world exposure to academic institutions and foster a deeper understanding of their field of study.

  • Tour Highlights:
  1. NFSU Campus Tour – The visit commenced with a guided tour of the NFSU campus, including visits to various Centres of Excellence of Narcotics Drugs and Substances, Ballistics Range, Behavioural Sciences, Food Testing and Dopping Test laboratory, Cyber Defense Centre, DNA Fingerprinting, libraries, laboratories, classrooms and other academic programs.
  2. Interactions with NFSU faculty- There was an opportunity for students to engage in discussions with professors and academic advisors, facilitating academic and career guidance.
  3. Research Facilities- Visit specialized research centers and laboratories and expose students to advanced equipment and research opportunities.
  4. NFSU campus Life – Students had the chance to interact with current NFSU students, gaining insights into campus life, extracurricular activities, and student organizations.
  5. Alumni Interaction – Alumni of our NSIT Institute who had pursued higher education at the NFSU shared their experiences and success stories.

 

In conclusion, the education tour visit to NFSU Gandhinagar was a significant and enriching experience for our students. It provided them with valuable insights into higher education, research opportunities, and career prospects. The tour also fostered a  sense of collaboration and academic exchange between NSIT and the NFSU.

We believe that such educational tours play a vital role in enhancing the overall learning experience and preparing students for future academic and career endeavors. We look forward to continuing such initiatives in the future.

 

Janmashtami (6th Sep 2023)

In our Institute, we recognize the cultural diversity of our student body and encourage the celebration of various festivals, including Janmashtami.  
  • Program Highlights:
The Janmashtami celebration was a vibrant event that showcased various cultural performances and traditional rituals.
  1. Decorations: The campus was adorned with vibrant decorations, including flowers and rangoli creating a festive atmosphere.
  2. Krishna Idol: A beautifully decorated idol of Lord Krishna, representing his divine childhood form, was placed in a specially decorated shrine.
  3. Matki Phod: A Matki was suspended normally above the ground, filled with curd and butter. Students with faculty members enthusiastically attempted to break the pot blindfolded, reminiscent of Krishna’s playful nature.
   In conclusion Janmashtami celebration at our institute to our commitment to celebrating diversity and cultural heritage.  

Teachers’ Day (5th September 2023)

Teachers’ Day is a special occasion dedicated to honoring the dedicated educators who play a pivotal role in shaping the future of students. At our institute, we believe in acknowledging the invaluable contributions of our faculty members. It was a day of appreciation, recognition, and camaraderie that contributed to a positive and harmonious academic environment.  
  • Program Highlights:
The Teachers’ Day celebration was a day-long event that featured a variety of activities and gestures to honor our teachers.
  1. Formal Assembly: The day began with a formal assembly where students gathered to pay tribute to their teachers. The institute leadership also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of educators in society.
  2. Students Performances: Students organized various cultural performances, including songs, dances, and skits, to entertain and celebrate their teachers.
  3. Felicitation Ceremony: Distinguished teachers were felicitated and presented with tokens of appreciation for their exceptional contributions to education.
  4. Interactive sessions: Informal sessions were held where students could share their thoughts, experiences and personal anecdotes with their teachers.
 
  • Students Involvement
The Teachers’ Day celebration was primarily organized by students, with active participation from various student committees. Students took on the responsibility of planning and executing the event to ensure its success. At conclusion, We remain committed to continuing this tradition and fostering a culture of respect and gratitude towards our teachers.

Delegations from Germany as Special Guests Visited our Institute (3rd Sept. 2023)

Academic collaboration and the exchange of knowledge across international borders are essential components of modern education. In this context, our institute had the privilege of hosting a distinguished professor from Germany as a part of an academic exchange program.

Prof. Dr. Frank Walter and Prof. Dr. Reiner Creutzburg from SRH Berlin University of Applied Science, Germany Visited our institute as a special guest on 3rd September 2023.

  • Purpose of Visit

The primary purpose of the visit was to promote academic and research collaboration between our institute and esteemed institutions in Germany. The professor’s visit aimed to:

  • Facilitate knowledge exchange and discussions on research projects and academic initiatives.
  • Foster cultural and academic understanding between students and faculty members.
  • Explore opportunities for joint research projects, workshops, and academic partnerships.

 

  • Activities during the Visit:
  • Student Interaction: Dr. Frank Walter and Dr. Reiner Creutzburg engaged with students in informal sessions, sought advice, and broadened their perspectives on Forensic science and Cyber Security.
  • Academic Networking: The visit included interactions with other faculty members, researchers and experts in relevant fields to establish academic connections.
  • Research Collaboration Discussion: Meetings and discussions were held with faculty members to explore potential research collaborations and joint projects.

 

At conclusion, The visit of Prof. Dr. Frank Walter and Prof. Dr. Reiner Creutzburg from SRH Berlin University of Applied Science from Germany was a significant milestone in strengthening our institute’s academic connections and enriching the educational experience of our students and faculty members. It exemplifies our commitment to fostering global academic partnerships and promoting cultural exchange. We look forward to future collaborations and visits that will continue to elevate the academic excellence of our institution.

Onam Celebration (29th August 2023)

Onam, a prominent festival celebrated in the Indian state of Kerela, holds immense cultural and social significance. It marks the harvest season and is celebrated with enthusiasm and zeal.

At our institute, students from South India organized a vibrant Onam celebration to uphold their cultural traditions and share the joy of this festival with the entire campus community.

  • Program Highlights
  1. Pookkalam (Flower Rangoli): The campus was adorned with beautiful Pookkalam, intricate flower Rangoli designs, created by students, showcasing their artistic skills.
  2. Traditional Attire: Students and faculty embraced the occasion by wearing traditional Kerala attire, including elegant white sarees for women and Mundus for men.
  3. Cultural Performances: Students presented captivating cultural performances, including classical dances, traditional folk dances, and melodious songs.
  4. Games and Competitions: Fun-filled games and competitions, such as tug of war, boat races, etc added excitement to the celebration.

Orientation Programme (21st Aug 2023)

The Orientation Programme is an essential component of welcoming new students to our institute, providing them with vital information, and helping them integrate into the academic community equipping them with essential information and fostering a sense of belonging. The orientation program at our institute serves as a crucial step in ensuring that new students start their academic journey with confidence and enthusiasm. We are committed to continually enhancing our orientation program to meet the evolving needs of our diverse student body. 

 

The Institute of Forensic Sciences and Cyber Security at Narnarayan Shastri Institute of Technology (NSIT) has started its first batch with four courses and so the orientation programme named ‘Diksharambh’ was held on 21st August 2023 at 11 a.m. in the seminar hall of NSIT. The students came with their parents and the programme was graced with the presence of Vice President – Prof. Dharmesh Vandra, Principal – Prof. (Dr.) Nikunj Brahmbhatt and Campus Director – Prof. Sanjay Sharma. The programme started with the Saraswati Vandana prayer. The programme was anchored by Dr. Hiral Sanghavi, course coordinator of B.Sc.- M.Sc. Forensic Science. She briefed about the history of Narnarayan Shastri Institute of Technology (NSIT), its mission and its importance with respect to the affiliation with the esteemed National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) – Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India. The vision of NSIT and its importance was narrated by        Dr. Geeta Gupta, course coordinator of M.Sc. Forensic Science. She also briefed and oriented about the various courses under the Institute of Forensic Sciences & Cyber Security of NSIT to the students and parents.

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