Commendably for it, the government is making serious efforts to bring small arms production, an important but commonly known cottage industry of the 'ilaq-i-ghair' (alien territory) in the tribal areas, into the mainstream of export-oriented economic activity.
It was a while ago that a working group and a steering committee were set up to formulate a strategy for the development of hunting and sports guns industry in the area.
Industries and Production Minister Jehangir Tareen chaired a meeting of the steering committee in Islamabad on Friday. It was a follow-up of the deliberations of three working groups and the steering committee, which have determined that the industry in the area known as Darra has a potential of exporting some 600,000 arms, and earn foreign exchange to the tune of $100 million.
Darra made guns of various kinds are famous for the skill of the technicians who produce them, and also the laissez-aller atmosphere in which gun manufacturing, over the years, has become the area's traditional craft. These guns are cheap to buy and can be kept without worrying about licensing restrictions. However, the dangers inherent in the situation, are obvious enough. And so is the need to regulate the affairs of the industry in this particular area.
It is imperative to bring the production of these arms within the fold of legality and channelise the manufacturing activity in a more productive endeavour. There is no better way of doing that than to offer those engaged in this illegal pursuit the chance to make good money through upgradation and expansion of their existing facilities so as to sell the new products in foreign markets.
Since those manufacturing guns in Darra lack formal training, it is hardly surprising if what they make does not always meet international standards. The problem is being given due attention. The steering committee has proposed setting up of skill development centres in Darra Adam Khel to facilitate and train local arms manufacturers. That would be a good start.
Considering that there is a big market for sports and hunting guns it would be worthwhile to explore further possibilities. It is true that such gun production is the preserve of the informal private sector, and that defence-related industries do not dabble in this particular area. The technology requirements in this field are rather simple.
Yet what is generally lacking in our situation is scientific precision that comes with advanced technical training. It would be a good idea, therefore, to look into private-public sector joint venture projects established as subsidiary units of the Wah Ordnance Factories, which could provide technical expertise and ensure quality control. But these projects must have maximum independence to function on purely commercial lines.