By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide
Surat: Dr Lata Suresh, Head of Knowledge and Research at the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, was invited as a speaker and moderator at a session on “Cyber Crime and Forensic Science” during the Surat Literature Festival 2026.
The session featured Dr G K Goswami, IPS, Founder Director of the Uttar Pradesh State Institute of Forensic Sciences (UPSIFS), as the principal speaker. The discussion offered in-depth insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of cyber crime and the growing importance of forensic science in investigation, detection and prevention.
Speakers highlighted contemporary cyber threats including digital arrest frauds, sextortion, online financial scams and other technology-driven crimes. Emphasis was laid on the reality that a majority of modern crimes now involve electronic and digital platforms, underlining the need for enhanced public awareness and digital literacy.
Special focus was given to the national cybercrime helpline number 1930, stressing its role in timely reporting and prevention of financial losses. The session also explored emerging global trends and policy perspectives in cyber governance, including references to artificial intelligence–led regulatory models such as Albania’s AI ministerial initiatives.
Through a series of case studies, the discussion examined deceptive cyber fraud practices commonly referred to as Nazrana, Shukrana, Makrana and Jabrana, offering practical insights into their modus operandi and preventive measures for citizens.
An interactive question-and-answer session saw active participation from the audience on issues related to cyber safety, forensic evidence and individual responsibility in the digital ecosystem. The session concluded with a strong emphasis on empowering the public to respond effectively to cyber crime threats.
The Surat Literature Festival 2026, held from January 9 to 11 at Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, brought together writers, academicians, policy experts, security and forensic professionals, artists and youth participants from across the country. Spread over three days, the festival featured multiple thematic sessions and emerged as a major national platform for intellectual, literary and cultural dialogue.
