BMS 8 - Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons 

(June 27-July 1, 2022)

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Statement by Mr. Sandeep Arya, Additional Secretary, Govt of India

on Agenda item 7

Mr. Chair,

International Tracing Instrument to identify and trace illicit SALW is closely intertwined with the POA, and is vital to operationalizing our collective efforts against illicit trafficking of small arms & light weapons. Marking, adequate record-keeping and effective information exchanges for tracing are the interconnected pillars on which effective implementation of the ITI rests.

At the national level, India has sound law-based regulations and procedures for marking, record-keeping and tracing of small arms and ammunition. India maintains an online national database of arms and ammunition manufactured, sold or transferred nationally as well as detailed provisions for disposal and destruction of firearms and ammunition. We also maintain centralized records in our National electronic Database of Arms License- Arms License Issuance System coordinated by the Ministry of Home Affairs of India.

India believes that cooperation in tracing between States is essential for effective implementation of the ITI and combating the illicit trafficking of SALW. Tracing requests responded to, in a timely manner are critical to support national efforts to combat illicit arms trafficking and its inter-linkages. This element desires improvement.

We appreciate the analysis presented by the UN Secretariat on the implementation of ITI and value their suggestions for further work through technical group to discuss implications of technological developments on the implementation of POA and ITI. 

We believe that factors limiting the effectiveness of tracing efforts need more thorough assessment together with suggested measures for improving productive tracing efforts. We support a dialogue for promotion of a dedicated multilateral platform for sharing of information, and receiving and responding to requests for tracing. This would help in operationalizing the ITI further and augment pathways for enhanced international cooperation in the full and effective implementation of the UNPOA.

Thank you Mr Chair