Current state of Disaster Victim Idenification in India: Reflections and Future Prospects

Abstract

ABSTRACTDisaster Vic????m Iden????fica????on (DVI) is crucial for providing closure to affected families and communi????es post-disasters. This paper comprehensively analyzes the current state of DVI in India, reflec????ng on past prac????ces and proposing future possibili????es. Exploring India's suscep????bility to diverse disasters, the review evaluates the exis????ng policy framework, emphasizing the pivotal role of DVI in disaster a????ermaths. The paper par????cularly focuses into the importance of forensic odontology in vic????m iden????fica????on, drawing insights from historical disasters and advoca????ng for a comprehensive, mul????disciplinary approach in disaster response planning. Considera????on is given to key legisla????ve responses, including the Disaster Management Act of 2005. Recommenda????ons for enhancing DVI in India emphasize interna????onal best prac????ces, an Iden????fica????on Board, and biometric databases. Integra????on of forensic odontologists into disaster response teams and standardized protocols for dental evidence collec????on and analysis are crucial. In conclusion, the paper underscores the mul????faceted aspects of disaster preparedness and vic????m iden????fica????on, emphasizing the pivotal role of forensic odontology and advoca????ng for strategic measures to elevate DVI in India in alignment with global standards and ethical considera????ons.