Ram Temple to get sniper cover as UP rolls out major security weapons upgrade
Uttar Pradesh is preparing to deploy specialised snipers at the Ram Temple and other high-security establishments as part of a major upgrade of the state's security arsenal, with new sniper rifles, firearms and surveillance equipment being procured under the police modernisation scheme.
The security upgrade will see snipers deployed at sensitive locations including the Ram Temple, RRTS facilities, Lok Bhavan, metro installations and the Allahabad High Court. The government has approved the purchase of three sniper rifles for the Special Security Force (SSF), with each rifle costing around Rs 10.76 lakh.
The state will also procure 14 telescopic search mirrors to strengthen surveillance at these high-security locations.
The rifles being procured have been identified as ‘Vidhwansak’ anti-materiel sniper rifles. These heavy, multi-calibre weapons can be used with 12.7mm, 14.5mm and 20mm ammunition.
Depending on the calibre, the rifles have an effective range of around 1,300 to 2,300 metres and weigh between 25 and 29 kg. Unlike conventional sniper rifles, anti-materiel rifles are designed to engage hard targets such as bunkers, lightly armoured vehicles and radar systems, among other critical installations.
The modernisation push, however, extends beyond sniper deployment.
The state has also decided to replace old weapons used by security personnel deployed with public representatives. As part of the upgrade, 800 9mm submachine guns and 2.56 lakh rounds of ammunition will be procured at an estimated cost of around Rs 5.59 crore.
The three newly formed women battalions of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) will also receive modern firearms. The government has sanctioned around Rs 2 crore for 373 pistols and 90 assault rifles for the battalions.
The procurement is aimed at strengthening the state's specialised security units, upgrading ageing weapons and improving surveillance at some of Uttar Pradesh's most sensitive and high-profile locations.- EndsPublished By: Shipra ParasharPublished On: Sep 15, 2026 23:38 IST
