Dr. Lalji Singh (1947–2017) – The Father of DNA Fingerprinting in India
Born in: Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Field of Expertise: Molecular genetics, DNA fingerprinting, and wildlife conservation.
- Introduction of DNA Fingerprinting in India (1990s)
Instrumental in bringing DNA fingerprinting into mainstream forensics in India.
Helped solve criminal cases and paternity disputes using genetic evidence.
- Founder of Key Scientific Institutions
Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD) – 1995
Developed forensic DNA profiling techniques.
Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES) – 1998
Focused on genetic conservation of India’s wildlife.
Genome Foundation – 2004
Provided diagnosis and treatment of genetic disorders, especially for rural and underprivileged populations.
- Contributions to Research
Molecular basis of sex determination.
Wildlife conservation and silkworm genome analysis.
Population genetics and ancient DNA studies.
Director, Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad (1998–2009).
25th Vice-Chancellor, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) (2011–2014).
Chairman, Board of Governors, IIT (BHU), Varanasi.
Padma Shri (2004) – For contributions to science and technology.
Published over 200 research papers in molecular genetics and DNA studies.
Transformed forensic science and genetic research in India.
Revolutionized wildlife conservation through genetic techniques.
His work in ancient DNA studies helped trace Indian population genetics.
