Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Sept 11: In a significant step towards strengthening crime scene investigation and ensuring effective convictions, the Maharashtra government has approved the recruitment of 180 personnel on a contractual basis for the pilot phase of its Mobile Forensic Vans Project.

According to a Government Resolution (GR) issued by the Home Department, 21 Mobile Forensic Vans have been deployed in the first phase. These vans, equipped with advanced forensic tools, will be used to collect circumstantial evidence in serious crimes punishable with imprisonment of seven years or more.

The sanctioned 180 posts include:

• 45 Assistant Chemical Analysts (Group B)

• 45 Scientific Assistants in computer crime, sound, and audio analysis (Group C)

• 45 Vehicle Drivers (Group C)

• 45 Laboratory Assistants (Group D)

The annual salary expenditure for these posts has been estimated at Rs 12.72 crore. Additionally, the government has sanctioned Rs 32.03 crore towards maintenance, manpower, fuel, repair, kits, and software required for the vans.

The GR further states that recruitment for the first year will be carried out through external contractual mechanisms or eligible system integrators. Over the next five years, 20% of the workforce is expected to be regularised annually.

The decision follows approval by the Finance Department’s Sub-Committee during its meeting on June 20, 2025.