Hanoi (VNA) – The Ministry of Health has called for accelerated efforts to identify the remains of fallen soldiers within the 500-day campaign, stressing that speed must go hand in hand with absolute accuracy so that martyrs can return to their families and hometowns.
Deputy Minister of Health Tran Van Thuan, who is Chairman of the National Medical Council, made the request while chairing a hybrid meeting on June 5 to review progress in the implementation of the 500-day campaign to step up the search, collection and identification of martyrs’ remains. The meeting also assessed the work during the first six months of 2026 and set priorities for the remaining months of the year.
The campaign focuses on three key areas - reviewing and standardising data; stepping up the search and collection of remains at home and abroad; and expanding DNA testing while connecting genetic databases of martyrs’ remains with their families.
During the first half of 2026, the Ministry of Health carried out many important tasks. It issued a plan for collecting samples for DNA testing and urged localities and relevant agencies to coordinate implementation.
Four units nationwide are currently capable of conducting DNA testing: the National Institute of Forensic Medicine (NIFM) and forensic centres in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Thai Nguyen, with a combined estimated capacity of about 6,700 samples annually.
The NIFM serves as the focal point, having prepared personnel, equipment and implementation plans to conduct tests upon requests from competent authorities. It has also provided professional training for personnel involved in the work.
Participants at the meeting stressed that identifying remains is not merely a technical task, but also a profound political, social and humanitarian responsibility, helping return fallen heroes to their names, hometowns and families.
However, the implementation still faces shortages of specialised equipment, limited specialised personnel, delays in funding allocation and the need to refine technical procedures to ensure highly accurate testing.
In the second half of 2026, the Ministry of Health will continue the campaign, strengthen DNA testing capacity, promote the application of science and technology, and improve professional procedures. It will also closely coordinate with relevant ministries, sectors and localities to ensure the campaign’s progress and quality.
Thuan said the campaign had entered an accelerating phase, requiring concerted efforts nationwide. He described the work as a sacred mission and a practical expression of the tradition: "When drinking water, remember the source,” to remember one’s homeland and upbringing.
He stressed that identifying martyrs’ remains is a specialised task requiring stringent professional standards, quality control and absolute accuracy.
“Maximum efforts must be made to identify the fallen heroes and return them to their hometowns as quickly as possible, with absolute accuracy,” he said.
The Deputy Minister ordered relevant units to closely review progress, identify and solve problems, and coordinate with the Ministry of National Defence to accelerate the campaign./.
