The Ministry of Tourism India has intensified its efforts to enhance the safety and security of travellers across the country by working closely with state governments and union territory administrations.
Although tourist safety falls primarily under the jurisdiction of state governments, the Ministry has been encouraging states to establish dedicated tourist police units to ensure better protection and assistance for visitors at major travel destinations.
Following these efforts, several states and union territories including Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, and Uttar Pradesh have already deployed tourist police personnel to support and guide travellers.
To further improve safety for women travellers, the ministry has been encouraging states to implement projects under the Nirbhaya Fund through the Safe Tourism Destination for Women initiative. The programme focuses on enhancing security infrastructure and support systems at popular tourism destinations.
In addition, the ministry has introduced a Code of Conduct for Safe and Honourable Tourism in collaboration with tourism stakeholders and state tourism departments. The guidelines aim to promote responsible tourism practices while ensuring the safety, dignity, and protection of tourists and local communities, particularly women and children.
For travellers seeking assistance, the Ministry has also launched a 24×7 multilingual tourist helpline accessible through toll-free number 1800-111-363 or short code 1363. The helpline provides support in 12 languages, including several international languages, and offers guidance for tourists requiring information or help during emergencies.
The ministry has also digitalised tourism services by introducing an online platform through the National Integrated Database of Hospitality Industry. The portal allows accommodation providers and tourism service operators to apply online for classification and recognition, with integrated payment systems designed to improve transparency and service delivery.
Alongside safety initiatives, improving connectivity to tourist destinations remains a priority. The Ministry is working with the Ministry of Civil Aviation India to enhance air connectivity under the UDAN Regional Connectivity Scheme, supporting 53 tourism routes across the country.
This information was shared by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in the Lok Sabha, highlighting the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen safety, accessibility, and infrastructure for tourists visiting India.