Security arrangements across correctional facilities in Uttar Pradesh are set for a major upgrade with the planned acquisition of 676 advanced INSAS rifles. Alongside the firearms, authorities have sanctioned the procurement of 58,795 rounds of live ammunition dedicated to training drills and active duty requirements. The initiative forms part of the ongoing police and prison modernization drive led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, focusing on equipping prison wardens and supervisory personnel with reliable arms to maintain tighter vigilance inside detention facilities.
Estimated Outlay of Nearly 14 Crore Rupees
The Department of Prison Administration and Reform Services has estimated the total financial outlay of this procurement at approximately 14 crore rupees. A formal proposal detailing the expenditure breakdown has been submitted to the state administration for execution. According to the budgetary allocations, procuring the 676 rifles will require roughly 13.5 crore rupees, while acquiring 58,795 cartridges will cost close to 30 lakh rupees. Together, the arms package represents an investment of around 14 crore rupees aimed at boosting tactical readiness and standardizing weapons handling among custodial staff.
STF Entrusted to Coordinate Arms Procurement
Director General (DG) of Prison Administration and Reform Services P C Meena confirmed that the acquisition will be routed directly through the Special Task Force (STF) of the Uttar Pradesh Police. Under this procurement arrangement, the state will secure 5.56 mm SLR INSAS models. Channeling the purchase through the specialized tactical unit ensures that testing, ballistic specifications, and delivery protocols adhere strictly to high operational standards.
Past Arms Acquisitions Over Recent Years
This initiative builds upon recent efforts to progressively replace older armaments across the state prison network. Over the preceding two years, the department had already purchased 254 INSAS rifles and 44,875 rounds of ammunition. The impending intake of 676 additional units will substantially expand arms density among perimeter guards, institutional gates, and specialized reaction units tasked with managing high-security compounds.
Technical Specifications and Tactical Reach of INSAS
INSAS stands for Indian Small Arms System, an indigenously engineered 5.56 mm assault rifle platform. Designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in partnership with domestic ordnance factories, the system was originally conceived to meet infantry requirements for the Indian Armed Forces and central security formations. Technical evaluations from DRDO define it as a gas-operated, magazine-fed weapon recognized for its lightweight design and balanced handling. With an effective combat firing range of around 400 meters, the rifle delivers steady accuracy suitable for guarding large correctional facilities.
