Gender Determination Using Fingerprint Ridge Density in Perambalur District of Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Fingerprints, renowned for their individuality, serve as pivotal evidence in the criminal justice system. It aids investigators in bolstering criminal and civil investigations, given the permanence and distinctiveness of fingerprints. Fingerprints are also helpful in determination of gender in such cases which helps in narrowing down the scope of search. Numerous studies have been conducted on determination gender determination using fingerprint ridge density but no such work was found for Perambalur district, Tamil Nadu. Hence, the present study aimed to explore correlation between fingerprints and gender in the young population of Perambalur district, Tamil Nadu. A total of 600 rolled fingerprints of index, middle, and ring fingers of both the hands were collected from 50 males and 50 females participants. Ridge density was calculated in an area of 25 mm 2 . It was observed that ridge density in a given specific area was higher in females than in males. The findings add to the existing literature and aims to help the forensic investigations.