Phil

I agree with Rusty; almost assuredly the silver inlay is a replacement for one engraved one originally inserted for presentation purposes. But the reasons for presentation could be anything. On target rifles it usually as a prize for a major event. If the rifle had Indian origins, it could be for recognition of service by some Army Officer or Public Servant. Additionally, it was common among the Indian rulers to give guns as presents in appreciation of of being hosted on other rulers hunts; sometimes the guns were so inscribed. Or it could just be given for just being a "jolly good fellow"!