Panjab University (PU) scientists have developed AI-based facial reconstruction models that can accurately recreate a person’s face (with up to 95% accuracy) using only the dimensions of the teeth and jaws — a breakthrough for identifying victims in aeroplane crashes, bomb blasts and other disasters where the face is destroyed but jaws remain intact.The innovation is expected to significantly strengthen forensic investigation and disaster victim identification (DVI) processes.In a press release issued this evening, the PU authorities said, “The university has received a copyright for the novel computer programme from the Copyright Office, Government of India. The AI/ML models were devised by a team of forensic scientists under the leadership of Professor Kewal Krishan, Department of Anthropology, which included Professor Vishal Sharma (Institute of Forensic Science and Criminology – IFSC) and Dr Arun K Garg (Dr Harvansh Singh Judge Institute of Dental Sciences & Hospital). Six PhD research scholars — Damini Siwan, Nandini Chitara, Ankita Guleria, Rakesh Meena, Akansha Rana, and Ayushi Srivastava — contributed to the project.”“The models are capable of assisting forensic anthropologists in cases where human bodies are dismembered, decomposed, or commingled — conditions commonly found in natural and man-made disasters. With this AI tool, even when the face is damaged beyond recognition, identification becomes scientifically possible using preserved dental and jaw structures,” a PU spokesperson said.“This research is part of the PhD work of Damini Siwan and Dr Nandini Chitara. Damini, a forensic scientist from IFSC, focuses on applying AI to forensic casework, research, and ethics. Dr Nandini Chitara, recently awarded her PhD, is currently serving as Senior Scientific Assistant (Biology) at the Regional Forensic Science Laboratory, Haryana, Panchkula. The research team has expressed their gratitude to PU Vice Chancellor Professor Renu Vig for her encouragement and support for innovation and IPR protection,” the spokesperson added.Sudhanshu Trivedi to deliver Balramji Dass Tandon Memorial Lecture at PU todayRajya Sabha member Dr Sudhanshu Trivedi will address the fourth Shri Balramji Dass Tandon Memorial Lecture on ‘Why a Strong India Scares the World’ on Sunday. The lecture is being organised by Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh, in association with Balramji Dass Tandon Charitable Foundation. The Balramji Dass Tandon Memorial Lecture Series was instituted by the foundation in association with PU to commemorate the life, values and contributions of Balramji Dass Tandon, a freedom fighter, veteran politician, and Governor of Chhattisgarh, whose legacy continues to inspire generations.Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd