The iconic .303 (Three-Not-Three) rifles that have long been a symbol of Bihar Police are now on the verge of retirement, as the state pushes forward with the modernisation of its law enforcement arsenal. Once a staple weapon for police constables, these bolt-action rifles are gradually being replaced with more advanced, compact, and efficient weaponry.
Senior police officials revealed that the transition is part of a larger effort to not only enhance operational efficiency but also to improve public perception of the police. In line with a new policy issued by the police headquarters, personnel on law and order duty and general patrolling are now being equipped with smaller, ultramodern firearms instead of bulky rifles, which often draw unnecessary attention during public interaction.
Additional Director General of Police (Provisioning) Ajitabh Kumar stated that Bihar Police is now receiving a range of semi-automatic and automatic firearms, including AK-47s, Glock pistols, 7.62 mm assault rifles, INSAS rifles, and 9 mm auto pistols. The state has also begun incorporating advanced Indian-made weapons like the AK-203.
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The transition is not limited to field deployment. To train over 21,000 newly recruited constables, Bihar Police has procured training rifles from the Indian Army and Central Armed Police Forces. Additionally, large quantities of dummy bullets have been ordered to ensure effective weapons training.
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“The idea is to minimise the open display of weapons in public. Compact and modern weapons not only improve response time but also reduce fear among citizens during routine policing,” said ADG Ajitabh Kumar.
The policy reflects Bihar Police’s broader strategy to adopt smarter policing practices and align with modern standards of law enforcement.