In an emergency, every second counts. India now has a single emergency number, 112, that connects people to police, fire services and medical help. Here is how the system works.
What is ERSS
The Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) is a national project of the Ministry of Home Affairs, funded under the Nirbhaya Fund. It brings emergency services together under one number, 112, similar to 911 in the United States or 112 in Europe. The service was rolled out in states from 2019 and now covers all states and union territories.
How it works
- You call 112 or send an alert through the app or panic button.
- The call reaches the Emergency Response Centre in your state.
- Trained staff note your location and need.
- The nearest police, fire or ambulance unit is dispatched.
- You can get updates on the help being sent.
Older numbers like 100 for police, 101 for fire and 108 for ambulances have been integrated with 112 in many states.
Ways to reach 112
- Call 112 from any phone, even without balance or a SIM in many cases.
- Smartphone panic button: press the power button three times quickly.
- Feature phone panic button: long press the 5 or 9 key.
- 112 India app: press the SOS button to send your location.
- SMS and email options are also available in many states.
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112 India app
The app is available for Android and iPhone. It lets users:
- Send an SOS with location.
- Alert registered family or friends, called volunteers, near you.
- Use a Shout feature, especially designed for women, to call for help from registered volunteers nearby.
Special help for women
Many states link 112 with women’s safety services and helplines such as 181. Police units respond to calls for help from women on priority.
Tips
- Save 112 on speed dial and teach children and elderly family members how to use it.
- Speak clearly and give your exact location and the type of emergency.
- Do not make prank or false calls, as they delay help to others and can attract legal action.
- Keep location services on in your phone so responders can find you.
Other helplines
- 1930: cyber fraud reporting.
- 1098: child helpline.
- 14567: elder line for senior citizens.
Bottom line
Remember one number: 112. It can bring police, fire or ambulance help across India, and the app and panic button make it faster to ask for help.
Source / स्रोत: Emergency Response Support System, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, Press Information Bureau
