Lalji Singh

Lalji Singh (5 July 1947 – 10 December 2017) was an eminent Indian molecular biologist and geneticist widely regarded as the Father of Indian DNA Fingerprinting. He played a pioneering role in establishing DNA-based forensic and diagnostic research in India and contributed significantly to the fields of genetics, molecular biology, and wildlife conservation. His scientific vision and leadership transformed the nation’s capabilities in genomic science and applied biotechnology.

Early Life and Education

Lalji Singh was born in the village of Kalwari, located in the Jaunpur district of Uttar Pradesh, into a modest farming family. His father, Suryanarayan Singh, served as the village head. Despite limited educational resources in his early years, Lalji Singh demonstrated exceptional academic potential. He pursued his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Zoology at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), specialising in cytogenetics.
He completed his doctoral research at BHU in 1971 under Professor S. P. Ray Chaudhuri, focusing on the evolution of karyotypes in snakes. His early research established a strong foundation in cytogenetics, which later evolved into molecular-level investigations during his postdoctoral and institutional research career.

Scientific Contributions and Innovations

DNA Fingerprinting and Forensic Genetics

Lalji Singh’s most celebrated contribution was the introduction and development of DNA fingerprinting technology in India. His pioneering work enabled the use of DNA-based evidence in criminal investigations, paternity testing, and personal identification. This advancement revolutionised the Indian forensic system by replacing traditional serological methods with accurate molecular tools.
He was instrumental in setting up the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD) in Hyderabad in 1995, which became the country’s premier institute for genetic identification and forensic analysis. Through CDFD, he facilitated the application of DNA technology in solving complex criminal cases, identifying disaster victims, and conducting biodiversity studies.

Molecular and Conservation Genetics

Beyond forensic science, Singh made important contributions to molecular biology and conservation genetics. He conducted research on the molecular basis of sex determination, population genetics, and evolutionary biology. Recognising the importance of genetic tools in preserving biodiversity, he established the Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES) in 1998. LaCONES applied molecular methods for the conservation of threatened and endangered animal species, marking India’s entry into genetic conservation research.

Institutional Leadership and Academic Roles

Lalji Singh was known not only as a scientist but also as an institution builder. He served as the Director of the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) in Hyderabad from 1998 to 2009. Under his leadership, CCMB strengthened its research output in genomics, reproductive biology, and biotechnology applications.
Later, he became the 25th Vice-Chancellor of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), his alma mater, where he promoted academic excellence, research infrastructure, and interdisciplinary education. He also chaired the Board of Governors of the Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, enhancing collaboration between engineering and life sciences disciplines.

Key Research Areas and Impact

Throughout his career, Lalji Singh’s research covered diverse domains such as:

• Human genome diversity and population migration studies.
• Molecular evolution and chromosomal rearrangements.
• Wildlife DNA profiling for anti-poaching and conservation efforts.
• Genetic mapping related to reproductive biology and disease diagnosis.

His work bridged basic research with societal application, establishing DNA technology as a vital tool in governance, law enforcement, and environmental protection.

Recognition and Awards

Lalji Singh received numerous honours for his scientific contributions. The Government of India conferred upon him the Padma Shri in 2004 for his outstanding service to science and technology. He was elected a fellow of all three major Indian science academies: the Indian National Science Academy, the Indian Academy of Sciences, and the National Academy of Sciences, India.
He also received several institutional awards and honorary degrees in recognition of his efforts to advance genetic research and promote scientific infrastructure in India.

Personal Qualities and Leadership Style

Lalji Singh’s professional journey from a small village in Uttar Pradesh to leadership of India’s foremost scientific institutions epitomised determination, humility, and perseverance. He was deeply committed to mentoring young scientists and expanding scientific literacy. His approachable demeanour and inclusive leadership encouraged innovation and collaboration across research teams.
He emphasised the importance of applying science for social benefit, advocating for the use of molecular biology to address real-world challenges such as crime detection, biodiversity loss, and human health. His foresight and scientific integrity earned him immense respect in the academic and policy-making communities.

Legacy and Influence

Dr Lalji Singh’s contributions laid the foundation for modern forensic genetics and biotechnology in India. Through his initiatives, DNA-based evidence became an integral part of the criminal justice system. His establishment of institutions such as CDFD and LaCONES continues to shape the country’s research landscape in genomics, biodiversity, and applied molecular sciences.
He also inspired future generations of Indian scientists to pursue research excellence and uphold ethical standards in science. His life’s work demonstrates how scientific innovation, when combined with visionary leadership, can have far-reaching societal impact.