Arms Licence Applicants Must Undergo Mandatory Training

Arms Licence

ISLAMABAD: In a notable policy shift, the federal government has opted to introduce mandatory training as a prerequisite for the issuance and renewal of arms licenses, on Tuesday. The decision aims to enhance firearm safety and ensure that license holders possess the necessary skills and knowledge.

Under the new regulations, individuals seeking an arms licence will be required to undergo a two-day training program before applying to the federal district administration or the Ministry of Interior. The training sessions will take place at the shooting range of the Islamabad police, and successful completion will be a key requirement for obtaining an arms license. Notably, candidates will be subjected to an additional fee for participating in the mandatory training.

This move follows a broader trend of regulatory adjustments in the realm of firearm licensing. In July, the Punjab caretaker government approved a substantial increase in fees associated with the issuance and renewal of individual and commercial firearm licenses.

The fee for new applicants witnessed a significant surge, rising from Rs10,000 to Rs50,000. Existing license holders seeking renewal also faced an escalated fee, increased from Rs1,000 to Rs5,000.

Moreover, the fee for acquiring an “All Pakistan” license from Punjab’s Interior Department experienced a remarkable 2,000 percent increase, soaring from Rs5,000 to Rs100,000. Private institutions and security companies were not spared from the fee adjustments, facing a substantial hike from Rs7,000 to Rs50,000.

These developments reflect a concerted effort by the government to not only regulate firearm ownership more rigorously but also to ensure that individuals possessing arms licenses have undergone essential training, contributing to a safer and more responsible handling of firearms in the country.