LUCKNOW, Sept. 18 -- Women personnel of three Uttar Pradesh Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) battalions are set to gain enhanced operational capability with access to modern firearms, including 9mm pistols and 7.62x39mm automatic assault rifles, under a state government-approved procurement plan worth Rs.1.94 crore. A senior home department official confirmed that the Home (Police) Department, through a government order issued on September 12, approved the purchase of 373 9mm pistols and 90 automatic assault rifles for the three women PAC battalions. The move will provide the women personnel with both sidearms and automatic rifles for operational deployment, strengthening their ability to perform duties requiring armed response. The total sanctioned expenditure is Rs.1,94,37,222, including Rs.1,15,79,412 for the pistols and Rs.78,57,810 for the 7.62x39mm automatic assault rifles. The approval followed a proposal from PAC authorities and concurrence from the Finance Department....