Guwahati, Nov 10: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Sunday that the state government will issue the first batch of firearm licences to indigenous residents living in vulnerable and remote areas in February 2026.

Speaking at a press conference after a cabinet meeting, Sarma said the administration has received numerous applications from indigenous residents, which are currently under review.

“We have received a lot of applications for firearm licences and are currently scrutinising them. The state government will issue the licences very selectively; not everyone seeking permission will be granted one,” the Chief Minister said.

The initiative is expected to precede the Assam Assembly elections, likely to be held in March or April next year.