Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh State Institute of Forensic Science (UPSIFS), Lucknow, inaugurated the three-day international conference Tech Sangam 2026 on Friday, bringing together experts from technology, law, cybersecurity, forensic science and academia to explore emerging challenges and opportunities.
The conference focuses on the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI), cyber forensics, quantum data protection and legal compliance. The inaugural ceremony was held at the institute’s Manthan Auditorium, with lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Dr G.K. Goswami, Professor Tanuja Singh, Professor A.M. Sherry, Dr Pawan Sharma and Sanjeev Suman, among other dignitaries.
Global Collaboration Key to Advancing Forensics
Professor Tanuja Singh, president of the University of Indianapolis, USA, highlighted the importance of India-US collaboration and scientific ethics. She emphasised that scientific knowledge belongs to humanity and should not be confined by national boundaries. She also praised UPSIFS for efforts to integrate legal education with scientific knowledge and practical experience.
Dr G.K. Goswami, founding director of UPSIFS, welcomed the delegates, experts and students, describing the conference as an important milestone in the institute’s development. He highlighted the significance of the partnership with the University of Indianapolis and said that bringing technology and law together was essential to strengthening modern justice systems.
Goswami also stressed the need to balance technological advances, including DNA analysis and AI-based tools, with ethical judgement and impartial human decision-making.
Practical Skills and Legal Awareness in Focus
Professor A.M. Sherry, director of IIM Shillong, called on educational institutions to move beyond degree-based learning and equip students with practical skills, strong fundamentals and ethical values.
Using examples from Python programming and quantum mechanics, he underlined the importance of understanding core concepts. He also cited companies such as Uber, Zomato, Swiggy and Amazon to explain how identifying real-world problems can drive innovation and entrepreneurship.
Professor Nagaratna, CEO of IITM C-DOT Samgya Technologies Foundation, stressed the need to bridge the gap between law, technology and forensic science. She said new technologies must incorporate legal requirements from the design stage itself, an approach commonly described as “legal by design”.
She also highlighted the importance of standardising forensic algorithms and protecting metadata to ensure the admissibility and reliability of digital evidence in courts. Greater cross-disciplinary training, she said, is needed so that technology professionals understand legal requirements and legal experts are familiar with the forensic aspects of digital systems.
Uttar Pradesh Highlights Modern Forensic Infrastructure
Awanish Awasthi, adviser to the Chief Minister, referred to the state government’s zero-tolerance policy towards crime and highlighted the role of scientific investigation in strengthening public safety.
He cited the state’s network of 18 forensic laboratories and the use of modern techniques, including DNA testing and gas chromatography, in criminal investigations. Awasthi also emphasised the importance of technological advancement and scientific methods in improving investigative capabilities.
He expressed confidence that discussions during the three-day conference would contribute to the wider adoption of technology and strengthen forensic practices in Uttar Pradesh.
Wide-Ranging Discussions on Emerging Technologies
The conference features sessions on a broad range of subjects, including data protection and digital trust, quantum technologies and employment opportunities, legal-technology professions, international cooperation in forensic science, robotics, drones and 3D printing.
Other key themes include AI applications in forensic investigations, industry-ready skills for young professionals, cyber resilience, banking and insurance compliance, AI in construction and data protection frameworks.
Senior officials, academic experts, forensic specialists and industry representatives are participating in the discussions. Contributors include DIG Ashish Tiwari, Principal Secretary Pandhari Yadav, Pawan Sharma, Anjali Gupta, Parag Shende, Pandurang Acharya, Vaibhav Pratap Singh, Atul Tripathi, Dr Vidur Raj and Dr Shekhar Shukla, among others.
Representatives from technology companies, including TCS, Zscaler and QNu Labs, are also sharing industry perspectives and professional insights.
Additional Director Sanjeev Suman, Chiranjib Mukherjee, Atul Yadav and several faculty members and officials attended the inaugural programme.
Through expert discussions and cross-sector engagement, Tech Sangam 2026 aims to strengthen collaboration between technology and legal professionals, advance forensic capabilities and prepare students and young professionals for emerging challenges in digital security and justice.
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