Why is News :
- In the aftermath of the Air India Boeing 787 crash in Ahmedabad, authorities are using DNA analysis to identify charred or unrecognizable human remains.
- DNA samples from victims’ families have been collected for forensic matching.
What Is DNA Analysis in Disaster Victim Identification (DVI)?
- It is the gold standard for forensic identification during mass fatalities.
- Used when bodies are burned, fragmented, or decomposed, making visual identification impossible.
Sample Collection and Storage
- Time-sensitive: DNA degrades rapidly post-mortem.
- Storage conditions:
- Frozen at -20°C, or preserved in 95% ethanol for soft tissues.
- Hard tissues (bones, teeth) preferred over soft tissues for longer DNA integrity.
- Reference samples from family members are crucial (preferably parents, children, siblings).
Key Methods of DNA Analysis
Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Analysis
- Uses hyper-variable regions of nuclear DNA.
- Effective for establishing family relationships.
- Requires intact nuclear DNA.
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) Analysis
- Used when nuclear DNA is degraded.
- mtDNA is maternally inherited, helpful in tracing maternal relatives.
Y-Chromosome STR Analysis
- Used for tracing paternal lineage.
- Matches victims with male relatives (father, brother, uncle, etc.).
Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) Analysis
- Useful for highly degraded DNA.
- Can use reference material like toothbrush or hairbrush.
- Less effective than STR or mtDNA.
Significance
- Enables accurate and dignified identification of victims.
- Provides closure for families and supports legal processes, such as death certification and insurance claims.
- Highlights the need for rapid response protocols, trained forensic teams, and cold storage logistics in disaster management.
Broader Relevance
- Linked to ethical use of biotechnology, data privacy, and human rights.
- Reflects India’s evolving disaster response capability and use of advanced forensic science.
UPSC Relevance :
GS Paper: GS3 – Science & Technology; Disaster Management; Internal Security
Mains Practice Question
Q. Discuss the role of forensic DNA analysis in disaster victim identification. How can it strengthen India’s disaster management and internal security frameworks?