Women’s safety and empowerment: UP’s 3 women PAC battalions to get modern weapons, ₹1.94 crore budget approved

Ground Report (Special Correspondent, Lucknow):

Yogi Adityanath government has taken a big step towards women empowerment in Uttar Pradesh and further strengthening the security system of the state. The Home Department has given financial approval of ₹1.94 crore (₹1,94,37,222) to equip the three dedicated ‘Women PAC (Provincial Armed Constabulary) battalions’ of the state with state-of-the-art weapons. This decision will lead to unprecedented increase in the combat and security capabilities of women PAC soldiers.

What modern weapons will be purchased?

A total of 463 modern weapons will be procured from this budget by the Police Headquarters and the PAC Logistics Wing:

• 9mm Modern Pistols: 373 pistols (cost ₹1.15 crore).

• 7.62x39mm Automatic Assault Rifles: 90 rifles (cost ₹78.57 lakh).

The battalions of Lucknow, Gorakhpur and Badaun will be strengthened.

These state-of-the-art weapons will be provided to the three exclusive women PAC battalions of the state, which are located in Lucknow, Gorakhpur and Badaun. These battalions were established in the name of great women warriors – Uda Devi , Jhalkari Bai and warrior Avantibai Lodhi . With the availability of modern weapons, women soldiers will be able to take quick action in the security of sensitive establishments, crowd control in big events and law and order emergencies.

Instructions for timely purchase:

According to the order issued by the Home Department, the purchase process and budget utilization of these weapons has been directed to be completed by March 31, 2027. Officials say that getting dedicated weapons will directly help the women PAC personnel in regular firing practice and special training.