Bhatkal: Sri Guru Sudhindra College in Bhatkal has launched new undergraduate courses in Criminology and Forensic Science along with a dedicated forensic science laboratory.

The new B.Sc. programmes and laboratory were inaugurated at a function held at the college’s Srimathi Vidya Ramesh Shanbhag Auditorium on Saturday.

Uttara Kannada Superintendent of Police Deepan M.N., who inaugurated the facilities, said forensic science and criminology play a crucial role in the investigation of modern crimes. He urged students to gain practical knowledge in the fields and contribute to national security and the justice system.

Dr Srikanth Prabhu, professor in the Department of Computer Science at Manipal Institute of Technology and coordinator of Cyber Security Niketan, said the analysis of digital and forensic evidence had become an important challenge with the rapid growth of technology. He welcomed the availability of such specialised courses to students in rural areas.

Dr Nagaraj Kamath, a resource person from the cyber security division in Manipal, conducted an awareness session for students on safe practices in the digital environment and responsible use of technology.

Bhatkal Education Trust vice-president Ravindra G. Kolle delivered the introductory remarks. Trust president Surendra Shanbhag presided over the programme, while managing trustee Rajesh Nayak welcomed the gathering and college principal Srinath Pai proposed a vote of thanks.

Bhatkal DySP Girish, Bhatkal Police Inspector Divakar, PSI Naveen Naik, police personnel, principals of various colleges, trustees of the Bhatkal Education Trust, teaching and non-teaching staff, and students attended the programme.