Are you planning to start a business in arms manufacturing in India? Whether you’re an industrial entrepreneur or a defense sector investor, obtaining a Weapons Manufacturing License under the Arms Act, 1959 is a legal necessity.
This guide walks you through the step-by-step process to legally register your firearms, ammunition, or weapon components manufacturing unit in India—with 2025 updates, government links
1. 🏁 Introduction
India’s defense manufacturing sector is booming under the Make in India initiative. As a result, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Ministry of Defence have streamlined the process for arms and ammunition manufacturing licenses.
However, due to national security concerns, the application process remains rigorous and highly regulated.
✅ Licensing is now centralized through the NDAL-ALIS portal – https://ndal-alis.gov.in
2. 🛠️ Types of Licenses Offered
Depending on the nature of your business, the following types of licenses are offered under the Arms Rules, 2016:
- Manufacture of Small Arms & Ammunition
- Manufacture of Defence Equipment (non-lethal and lethal)
- Manufacture of Firearm Components (e.g., barrels, magazines)
- Prototyping for Defence Contracts
Each category requires different documentation, plant inspection, and security clearance.
3. 👤 Who Needs These Services?
- Startups in the defense tech space
- Engineering or metalworking units looking to pivot to arms manufacturing
- Arms exporters and suppliers
- Military contractors
- Ammunition recyclers or testers
- Any private or public limited company wanting to manufacture weapons legally in India
4. 🤝 Why Choose a License Registration Service Provider?
Obtaining a manufacturing license isn’t like a simple registration—it’s highly technical and time-sensitive. Here’s why professional help matters:
- Understands NDAL/ALIS registration portal and DoD guidelines
- Coordinates with Ministry of Home Affairs, State Police, and Ministry of Defence
- Helps draft detailed manufacturing SOPs and compliance documentation
- Assists with site layout approval, factory safety certifications, and employee vetting
- Increases approval chances significantly with complete & verified application
5. 🔁 Registration Process
- Create account on NDAL-ALIS portal
- Submit application using Form A-6 under the Arms Rules, 2016
- Upload factory layout, equipment list, and staff details
- Receive Security Clearance from MHA and MoD
- Site inspection by law enforcement and defense officers
- Final grant of license with registration number
6. 📄 Required Documents
- Company incorporation certificate
- PAN & GST registration
- Detailed manufacturing plan
- List of machines and technology used
- Factory premises layout and ownership proof
- Employee background checks
- Bank solvency certificate
- Fire NOC and Pollution Clearance (if applicable)
- MHA/MoD clearance forms
📌 Pro tip: Upload scanned PDF documents that are self-attested and organized in order.
7. 💸 Cost Involved
| Item | Estimated Cost Range |
| Government License Fee | ₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000+ |
| Document Preparation | ₹20,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Security Clearance Facilitation | ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 |
| Site Safety Compliance Setup | ₹30,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
📌 Additional costs apply for fire safety audits, building modification, and technical inspections.
8. 🕒 Time Taken
| Step | Time Estimate |
| Online Application | 1–2 days |
| Document Review | 15–30 days |
| Security & Site Clearance | 60–90 days |
| Final License Approval | 3–6 months total |
Delays can occur if documentation is incomplete or if the factory layout doesn’t meet safety norms.
9. ⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incorrect or outdated factory layout
- Not getting prior clearance from local police
- Missing environmental or fire safety certification
- Applying without capital or manufacturing proof
- Listing unapproved arms categories or export items
🛡️ A rejected application can lead to a 6-month reapplication delay or even legal scrutiny—avoid this with expert help.
10. 📞 Call-to-Action
Ready to launch your weapons manufacturing business legally?
Let our experts guide you from Day 1 to license issuance.
📧 Email: opriyatrendingpvtltd@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp: +91 7588756518
🌐 Website: www.opriyatrending.in
From startup founders to established industries—we’ve helped dozens secure approvals swiftly.
11. ❓ FAQs
Q1: Can individuals apply for a weapons manufacturing license?
No. Only registered companies or legal entities with manufacturing capacity can apply.
Q2: Is an import/export license needed separately?
Yes, DGFT registration and MoD clearance are needed for arms trade/export.
Q3: Are toy guns or paintball guns covered under this license?
Not typically. This license is for firearms and ammunition, not non-lethal recreational arms.
Q4: Can the license be transferred?
No. The license is non-transferable and specific to location and ownership.
Q5: What happens if I manufacture without a license?
Severe legal action, imprisonment, and permanent blacklisting under the Arms Act, 1959.
