Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir’s Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has published its first genetic data study, revealing genetic connections between Kashmir’s population and regions along the ancient Silk Road, particularly Central Asia and Arab countries.
Published in the International Journal of Legal Medicine, the study analysed genetic markers from 694 people across Jammu and Kashmir.
The results show strong genetic ties between various districts in Kashmir and populations from Central Asia and the Arab world, highlighting historic connections through trade routes established as early as 130 BC.
The Silk Road, a network linking Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, left a lasting genetic influence in Kashmir, shaping the region’s diverse population and reflecting centuries-old demographic patterns.
Using advanced autosomal Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) to map genetic relationships across Kashmir’s districts, lead author Dr. Nadeem Mubarik emphasised the study’s value in law and healthcare, marking it as the first detailed autosomal STR study with major implications for forensic evidence.
He noted that DNA data in court cases, especially in sensitive areas like child protection, will now be strengthened by this statistical support. The research could also help manage genetic diseases in the region.
Additionally, the study showed that districts in Jammu have genetic links with neighboring Indian states, reflecting distinct demographic interactions across the region. Nearby districts like Ramban, Reasi, and Kishtwar demonstrated genetic diversity, underscoring Kashmir’s unique population structure.
FSL Director Gurmukh Singh praised the study for its expected positive impact on justice, improving conviction rates and the reliability of forensic evidence. Officer-in-charge of FSL Srinagar, Syed Ishfaq Manzoor, also commended the study’s significance for forensic science and justice in Jammu and Kashmir.
This research is anticipated to advance forensic and medical studies, providing a deeper understanding of Kashmir’s genetic ties to ancient civilizations and supporting future scientific work in the region.
