Nepal Floods: Telangana Families Advised on DNA Testing, Mortal Remains Identification
Telangana Bhavan is coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu and Nepal Police to trace Telangana-linked persons affected by the devastating floods in Nepal, officials said on Saturday. The state government’s liaison office is guiding families on identification procedures, DNA profiling and repatriation of mortal remains as authorities work through a complex disaster response.
The Nepal government has made photographs and basic particulars of the deceased available on the Nepal Police Disaster Portal. Identification of mortal remains is underway in several districts including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Chitwan, Gorkha, Tanahun, Nawalparasi East, Nawalparasi West and Kathmandu.
How families can identify loved ones
According to Nepal Police, DNA profiling is not mandatory when visual identification is possible. Mortal remains will be handed over to the next of kin after the identity of the deceased and their relationship with the claimant have been established. For cases where visual identification is not possible, DNA profiles of first-degree relatives — including parents, brothers and sisters — will be matched with samples collected by Nepal’s forensic authorities.
Officials emphasised that relatives do not have to travel to Nepal solely for DNA profiling. DNA profiles prepared at their place of residence can be submitted for matching. Nepal Police is also developing a mechanism to receive such profiles in advance through email, officials stated.
Key facts for affected families
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Coordination bodies | Telangana Bhavan, MEA, Indian Embassy Kathmandu, Nepal Police |
| Identification method | Visual identification preferred; DNA profiling for unidentifiable remains |
| DNA sample submission | Can be done from place of residence; no need to travel to Nepal |
| Affected districts | Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, Chitwan, Gorkha, Tanahun, Nawalparasi East/West, Kathmandu |
Indian nationals crossing from Tibet
In a related development, 449 Indian nationals crossed from Tibet into Nepal on August 29. Arrangements were made to facilitate the movement of another 397 Indian nationals through the same route on August 30. The list received by Telangana Bhavan included the name and passport details of Alli Ilesha, whose family confirmed he is in contact and was expected to reach Hyderabad around 10 pm on Sunday.
Protocol still being finalised
The detailed protocol for the identification, handover and repatriation of mortal remains is still being finalised by Nepal authorities. In view of these arrangements, families have been advised to seek guidance from Telangana Bhavan or the Embassy of India in Kathmandu before undergoing DNA testing or travelling to Nepal for identification.
What families should do next
Officials urge families with relatives who may have been in flood-affected areas of Nepal to first contact Telangana Bhavan in Hyderabad or the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. They should not proceed with independent DNA testing or travel arrangements without official guidance, as procedures are still being formalised and may change. Further information on individual cases will be shared with concerned families and the public only after official confirmation, the officials added.
Why this matters for Hyderabad readers
Many Hyderabad and Telangana residents travel to Nepal for tourism, pilgrimage and business. The floods have created uncertainty for families who may have loved ones in the affected regions. This guidance from Telangana Bhavan provides a clear protocol for families navigating a difficult and emotional process, ensuring they receive accurate information and avoid unnecessary expense or travel.
Source: Telangana Today – Hyderabad – Nepal floods: Families advised to seek guidance before DNA testing – https://telanganatoday.com/nepal-floods-families-advised-to-seek-guidance-before-dna-testing