Udupi
The Udupi District Police organised a certificate distribution ceremony at the Armed Reserve Police Centre, Chandu Maidan, marking the successful completion of a 20-day civilian firearm training camp. The programme, attended by 200 participants, underscored the department’s efforts to promote responsible firearm ownership and safety awareness among the public.
Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar, IPS, distributed the certificates to the participants who had successfully completed the training — a mandatory requirement under the Arms Act, 1959 for civilians applying for arms licences in Karnataka. With growing demand for firearm licences for self-defence, sports, and crop protection, the training aims to ensure that licensees are well-trained in firearm safety, handling, and storage.
This was the second such training camp this year, following a similar session held in September 2025, which saw 195 participants. Police officials said that the initiative has received positive response, particularly from residents in rural areas where firearms are often used for protection against wildlife.
Alongside the firearm training, the Udupi District Police have been conducting community outreach programmes, including a Cyber Security Awareness Month campaign that used social media reels, memes, and visuals to spread awareness about cyber threats. Winners of related competitions — including Parikshit Achar (drawing category) and Manjunath H.C. of Shirva Police Station (cyber awareness video) — were also felicitated.
Speaking on the occasion, SP Hariram Shankar said, “Our goal is to educate civilians to handle firearms responsibly while also preparing them to tackle modern challenges like cybercrime. Both initiatives reflect our commitment to ensuring safety and awareness in Udupi district.”
