The Punjab caretaker cabinet has formally approved a significant increase in fees for both individual and commercial firearm licenses, marking the most substantial rise in arms license fees in the country’s provincial history. The amendments to Punjab Arms Rules 2023 have notable implications for those seeking new or renewal licenses for personal protection or hunting.

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Under the new fee structure, the fee for new individual licenses has been raised from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000, while existing license holders will now have to pay Rs. 5,000 for renewing their license, up from Rs. 1,000.

The increase also applies to other categories. The fee for an “All Pakistan” license has surged from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 100,000. Private institutions and security companies will face a substantial fee hike, with charges elevated from Rs. 7,000 to Rs. 50,000. Acquiring a duplicate arms license will now cost Rs. 5,000, compared to the previous fee of Rs. 1,000.

Furthermore, fees for arms dealers, manufacturers, gunsmiths, and companies have also witnessed significant increases, with new arms dealership licenses soaring from Rs. 100,000 to Rs. 2 million.

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) arms license processing fee has also been revised upward, from Rs. 1,400 to Rs. 2,000. In an effort to streamline the application process, the Punjab Interior Department will now accept online applications for arms licenses in collaboration with NADRA. However, applicants will be required to pay a registration fee of Rs. 1,200 to avail this facility.