Maharashtra Govt Orders DNA Sampling For Nepal Flood Victims' Families

The Maharashtra government's Disaster Management, Relief and Rehabilitation Department has ordered the Director of the Digital Forensic Science Laboratory (DFSL) and Civil Surgeons of all districts to undertake priority DNA sampling of immediate family members of citizens missing in the recent Nepal flood incident.

This move is aimed at aiding the identification of mortal remains of Indian citizens affected by the floods. The DFSL has been asked to coordinate with the Health Department and respective Civil Surgeons to facilitate the collection of DNA samples from willing immediate family members of the missing citizens.

A list of affected families has been attached to the communication, and the respective District Civil Surgeons have been directed to collect DNA sampling kits in coordination with the DFSL. The samples will then be submitted to the nearest DFSL along with a covering letter from the respective doctors.

The direction follows the Ministry of External Affairs' press note regarding the identification of mortal remains of Indian citizens affected by the recent flash floods in Nepal. The Embassy of India in Kathmandu has confirmed that the Government of Nepal is collecting DNA samples from mortal remains for profiling and matching.

The DNA profiles of first-degree relatives are required to be shared with the Nepal Police to facilitate identification. The DFSL has been instructed to prepare the DNA profiles in the prescribed format, which will be transmitted to the Nepal Police in accordance with the NFSL SOP 2026, with a copy to the Embassy of India, Kathmandu.

The Maharashtra government has also launched a statewide drive to trace missing citizens and repatriate mortal remains. The department has directed that confirmation of completion of the process be communicated to its office, and copies of the direction have been sent to the Chief Secretary, Additional Chief Secretaries, and all District Collectors.

District Collectors have been asked to coordinate the process and ensure early action for the affected families. This move is expected to bring relief to the families of those missing in the Nepal floods, and aid in the identification and repatriation of mortal remains.

The recent floods in Nepal have caused widespread destruction and loss of life, with many Indian citizens still missing. The Maharashtra government's efforts to aid in the identification and repatriation of mortal remains are a welcome step towards bringing closure to the affected families.

In the coming days, the Maharashtra government is expected to continue its efforts to support the families of those affected by the Nepal floods. The government's actions are a testament to its commitment to providing relief and support to those in need, both within the state and beyond its borders.

The identification and repatriation of mortal remains is a complex and sensitive process, requiring careful coordination and cooperation between governments and agencies. The Maharashtra government's efforts in this regard are a significant step towards bringing relief to the affected families, and demonstrating the state's commitment to supporting its citizens in times of need.

In conclusion, the Maharashtra government's decision to undertake priority DNA sampling of families of Indians missing in Nepal floods is a significant move towards aiding the identification and repatriation of mortal remains. The government's efforts are expected to bring relief to the affected families, and demonstrate the state's commitment to providing support and relief to those in need.