Correct Answer: 1878

Solution : The correct answer is 1878 .

The Indian Arms Act of 1878 was enacted to regulate the manufacturing, sale, possession and carrying of firearms in Colonial India. The act introduced mandatory licensing for weapon possession but had exemptions for certain groups, such as "all persons of Kodava (Coorg) race". The British, recognising the historical role of metal-working in supporting indigenous powers, aimed to restrict Indian access to firearms and limit the country's ability to mine and work metals that could sustain future wars and rebellions.