In a significant move to bolster India’s internal security framework, the Centre has introduced the country's first-ever national weapons database. This initiative aims to combat terrorism, organized crime, and extremism by improving the tracing, monitoring, and recovery of government-owned firearms that may fall into illegal hands.
The 'Lost, Looted and Recovered Firearm' database was officially launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the inaugural session of the Anti-Terror Conference 2025. This two-day annual conference, organized by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), marked a pivotal moment in the modernization of India’s counter-terror infrastructure.
This comprehensive database includes meticulous records of government-owned firearms that have been lost, looted, stolen, or recovered. It encompasses weapons belonging to state police forces and Central Armed Police Forces. A user-friendly digital interface developed by the NIA allows real-time updates and controlled access for authorized users, facilitating smooth information sharing among states and security agencies.
Officials have indicated that the database integrates contributions from all states and Union Territories, including Jammu and Kashmir, the North-East region, and areas affected by Naxalite activities. This central repository enables police, paramilitary units, and investigative agencies to trace the origin and movement of firearms, significantly enhancing the quality and speed of investigations related to crime and terrorism.
Security experts have raised concerns that unaccounted government firearms often find their way into the hands of extremist groups, Naxalites, or organized criminal syndicates, posing severe threats to internal security. By centralizing firearms data, authorities aim to strengthen preventive measures, dismantle criminal networks, and prevent firearms from being reused in terror incidents. This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Ministry of Home Affairs to leverage technology, enhance inter-state coordination, and improve intelligence-led policing across India.
Q1. What is the purpose of the national weapons database?
Answer: The national weapons database aims to curb terrorism and organized crime by tracking and monitoring government-owned firearms to prevent them from entering illegal circulation.
Q2. Who launched the national weapons database?
Answer: The national weapons database was launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the Anti-Terror Conference 2025.
Q3. Which agency developed the database?
Answer: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) developed and hosts the 'Lost, Looted and Recovered Firearm' database.
Q4. What types of firearms does the database track?
Answer: The database tracks government-owned firearms that have been lost, looted, stolen, or recovered, specifically those belonging to police forces and armed units.
Q5. How does the database enhance security measures?
Answer: By centralizing firearm data, the database strengthens preventive mechanisms, improves coordination among agencies, and aids in dismantling criminal networks to enhance internal security.
Question 1: What is the primary goal of the national weapons database?
A) To track civilian firearms
B) To enhance security against terrorism
C) To monitor private gun ownership
D) To control illegal wildlife trade
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which minister inaugurated the national weapons database?
A) Minister of Defense
B) Minister of Home Affairs
C) Minister of Finance
D) Minister of External Affairs
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is the database called?
A) National Security Database
B) Lost, Looted and Recovered Firearm Database
C) Firearms Recovery Database
D) Central Arms Tracking Database
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which agency is responsible for developing the database?
A) Central Bureau of Investigation
B) National Investigation Agency
C) Intelligence Bureau
D) Ministry of Home Affairs
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is a significant benefit of the database for law enforcement?
A) Reducing crime rates
B) Improving gun control laws
C) Enhancing firearm tracking and recovery
D) Increasing military presence
Correct Answer: C
Question 6: In which conference was the database launched?
A) National Security Conference 2025
B) Anti-Terror Conference 2025
C) Crime Prevention Conference 2025
D) Law Enforcement Conference 2025
Correct Answer: B
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