112 Emergency Helpline Set for Nationwide Expansion

The 112 emergency response system is India’s national emergency number and functions through the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) 2.0. The system integrates police, fire, ambulance, and disaster management services through a single helpline and digital response platform.

National Emergency Number 112

The Ministry of Home Affairs has designated 112 as the national emergency number for India. The system is designed as a unified helpline for police, fire, ambulance, and other emergency services.

Supreme Court Direction on Integration

On 28 May 2026, the Supreme Court directed all States and Union Territories to integrate existing emergency and ambulance helplines into 112 within three months. The helplines listed for integration include 100, 101, 108, 102, 1033, and 1091.

Emergency Response Support System 2.0

ERSS 2.0 is a technology-driven emergency response platform that receives alerts from multiple channels. The system can be accessed through phone calls, a mobile application, SMS, a panic button, and online platforms.

Important Facts for Exams

• Article 21 of the Constitution of India protects the right to life and personal liberty.
• 112 is used as a single emergency number in several countries, and India has adopted it as the national emergency number.
• The 112 system can automatically detect the caller’s location for dispatch of the nearest emergency vehicle.
• Kerala launched an upgraded 112 emergency support system on 15 August 2025 with WhatsApp, web request, chatbot, and Track Me features.

State-Level Implementation

Delhi announced full implementation of the 112 unified emergency helpline on 19 January 2026. As of 2 February 2026, 20 States in India had joined the initiative to make 112 operational as a one-stop emergency service.

Service Features

The 112 system can alert police, fire services, ambulance services, and disaster management authorities simultaneously. The platform also supports users who cannot speak during an emergency through SMS and digital request options.