In a significant move to strengthen the firepower of Uttar Pradesh’s law enforcement agencies, the state govt has approved the procurement of 3,000 9mm pistols and 405 assault rifles for UP STF and Uttar Pradesh Special Security Force (UPSSF). This procurement, amounting to over Rs 11.7 crore, will bolster the state’s counter-terrorism, anti-crime and public security operations.
Official documents reveal that the purchase includes 3,000 units of 9mm pistols, each priced at Rs 27,899, totalling Rs 8.36 crore. Additionally, 405 units of 7.62x39mm assault rifles, costing Rs 83,151 each, bring the total expenditure for these weapons to Rs 3.36 crore. The contract was awarded to Stumpp Schuele Lewis Machine Tools Pvt. Ltd.
The decision was finalised by the home (police) department, after receiving approvals from the state’s finance department and prior administrative sanctions. To ensure accountability, the procurement process adheres to strict financial rules, including the requirement for advance payments, and holds govt officials accountable for the appropriate management and allocation of funds.
A senior officer in the home department said the acquisition was in response to increasing security challenges across the state. “The STF and UPSSF have been instrumental in combating organised crime, terrorism, and handling high-risk situations. With this procurement, both forces will be better equipped to address emerging security threats,” he said. The acquisition is part of govt’s larger strategy to enhance the preparedness and operational effectiveness of the STF and UPSSF, the officer added.
