Bengaluru Police Introduce AI-Powered Multilingual Namma 112

In a first-of-its-kind step in India, Bengaluru City Police have upgraded the Namma 112 emergency response system with a multilingual AI solution. The move aims to remove language barriers during emergencies and ensure faster and more accurate police assistance for all residents and visitors.

Launch of VANKI in Emergency Services

The new system is called Multilingual Voice AI for Nationwide Key Interventions (VANKI). It has been integrated into the Namma 112 helpline to help callers communicate in the language they are most comfortable with while seeking emergency support.

Real-Time Language Interpretation

VANKI uses artificial intelligence to understand and translate the caller’s message instantly. It relays the information to emergency call handlers in real time, helping them assess the situation quickly and send police, ambulance or fire services without delay.

Support for Indian and Foreign Languages

The AI platform currently supports more than 10 languages. These include Indian languages such as Bengali, Gujarati, Odia, Manipuri, Kashmiri, Nepali and Assamese. It also supports international languages like Spanish, French and Arabic, making it useful for foreign nationals living in or visiting Bengaluru.

Important Facts for Exams

• 112 is India’s national emergency helpline under the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS).
• Namma 112 is Bengaluru’s integrated police emergency response platform.
• VANKI stands for Multilingual Voice AI for Nationwide Key Interventions.
• Bengaluru is the first city in India to introduce multilingual AI in emergency helpline services.

Improving Public Safety Access

Bengaluru is home to people from different States and countries. Many people face difficulty during emergencies due to language differences. This AI-based system is expected to make public safety services more inclusive and accessible, especially for migrants, students, workers and international visitors.