Women empowerment gets more serious with Nirbheek, a small .32 bore light weight revolver, manufactured by Indian Ordinance Factory(IOF), Kanpur. It weighs just 500 grams and is also a first titanium alloy handgun by IOF and also the smallest revolver. This handy revolver that can easily fit in a handbag is priced at Rs. 1.22 lakh.

"The revolver is capable of firing six rounds loaded in a revolving chamber, hence any misfire of a round does not affect next shot, unlike in a pistol. Positive location of main spring eliminates malfunctioning as well," said an IOF spokesperson.

People are viewing this firearm with two different sides. Some think it won't make a difference, as the weapon may not work once the perpetrator has already subdued his prey. While others think it may be beneficial as it doesn't make the victim as vulnerable. According to Senior IPS officer Arun Kumar, "Once a target of rape whips out a handgun, the element of surprise is sure to scare the life out of most of the persons who attempt rape." and “Women carrying small handguns will surely make a difference to the tendency”.

Although there are mixed responses on the weapon, the market seems ready for a product like Nirbheek. According to State Records of Uttar Pradesh, over a million people have licensed arms, four times more than the UP police. Launched recently(Jan 6), the handgun has received about 80 formal enquiries and 20 bookings, 80% women. However, the bookings are expected to increase once the October 2013's new license ban is lifted by the Allahabad High Court.