Emergencies can occur at any time—whether it’s a medical crisis, a fire outbreak, a road accident, or a security threat—and the speed at which help arrives can make all the difference. In such moments, knowing the right emergency service number in India is not just helpful; it’s often lifesaving. While many people still struggle to recall which number to dial during specific emergencies, the government has taken steps to simplify the process with a unified emergency response system designed to ensure quicker, more coordinated assistance.
Until recently, India had a fragmented emergency response network, with different numbers for different services across states and cities. This often led to confusion, delays, and missed opportunities to save lives. Recognizing the critical need for a streamlined approach, the Government of India introduced 112—a single emergency helpline that integrates police, fire, and medical services into one accessible number, similar to 911 in the United States.
But even as the 112 number gains traction, many traditional emergency numbers such as 100, 101, 102, and 108 continue to be active in many regions. Additionally, private platforms like VMEDO now offer rapid-response ambulance services and emergency medical support, bridging the gap where public systems sometimes fall short.
What is the 112 Emergency Number in India?
The Universal Emergency Number
The 112 emergency number is India’s all-in-one emergency helpline, launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs under the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS). It functions like the 911 system in the United States.
By dialing 112, citizens can seek help for:
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Police assistance
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Medical emergencies (ambulance)
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Fire emergencies
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Women’s safety (linked to 1091)
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Disaster management
How it Works
When you dial 112:
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Your call is routed to the nearest Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP).
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The operator forwards your request to the concerned emergency service (ambulance, fire, police).
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In states with full ERSS integration, a GPS location is automatically detected for faster response.
Other Critical Emergency Numbers in India
While 112 is slowly becoming the central point for all emergencies, several traditional emergency numbers still exist and remain active in many parts of India.
| Emergency Type | Helpline Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 100 |
| Fire Department | 101 |
| Ambulance | 102 / 108 / 9343-180000 |
| Disaster Management | 1078 |
| Women’s Helpline | 1091 |
| Child Helpline | 1098 |
| Anti-Poison | 1066 |
| Road Accident Emergency | 1073 |
| Air Ambulance | 9343-180000 |
| Railway Emergency | 1393 |
Emergency Medical Numbers in India
India has a variety of ambulance and emergency medical services (EMS) providers, depending on the state and private operators.
Government Ambulance Numbers
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102 Ambulance: Free emergency transport for pregnant women and infants under government healthcare schemes like Janani Suraksha Yojana.
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108 Ambulance: Government emergency ambulance services operational in multiple states for all medical emergencies.
These services are free of cost and available 24/7. However, response times may vary depending on location and availability.
Private Ambulance Services
Private ambulance providers offer:
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Basic Life Support (BLS)
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Advanced Life Support (ALS)
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Neonatal ambulances
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ICU ambulances
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Dead body transport and freezer box vans
Example: VMEDO Ambulance Services
If you’re in need of a private ambulance in cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad or Delhi, VMEDO is a trusted name offering:
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24×7 dispatch of ambulances
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Trained paramedics
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Quick response time
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Booking via call or website
VMEDO Ambulance Booking Number: 9343-180000
State-Wise Emergency Helpline Numbers
| State | Local Ambulance Number | Police Helpline | Fire Helpline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Karnataka | 108 / 9343180000 (VMEDO) | 100 | 101 |
| Tamil Nadu | 108 | 100 | 101 |
| Mumbai | 108 / 1298 (Mumbai) | 100 | 101 |
| Delhi | 102 / 108 / 1091 | 100 | 101 |
| Hyderabad | 108 / 9343180000 | 100 | 101 |
| Pune | 108 / 1298 | 100 | 101 |
| Ahmedabad | 108 | 100 | 101 |
Role of VMEDO in Emergency Services
Who is VMEDO?
VMEDO is a leading emergency healthcare aggregator based in India. Since 2016, it has helped save thousands of lives by connecting patients to:
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Verified ambulance services
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Emergency medical responders
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Critical care units
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At-home healthcare and diagnostics
Services Offered in Emergencies:
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Ambulance on Call: Get the nearest ambulance dispatched within minutes.
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Event Medical Coverage: On-site ambulances for public and private events.
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Air Ambulance Services: Rapid patient transport across cities and countries.
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At-Home Emergency Care: ECG, IV, catheterization, emergency nurse visits.
How to Use Emergency Numbers Effectively
Here are some tips to ensure a smooth response during emergencies:
1. Stay Calm and Speak Clearly
Provide accurate information such as:
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Your name
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Nature of the emergency
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Exact location (landmarks help)
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Number of people involved
2. Use GPS When Possible
Apps like 112 India and VMEDO can automatically detect your location, making it easier for responders to reach you.
3. Save Numbers in Advance
Store numbers like:
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112
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108 / 102
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Local police stations
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Nearby hospital contacts
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VMEDO: 9343180000
4. Teach Kids and Elderly at Home
Ensure family members know:
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What to do in case of emergency
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Whom to call and what to say
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How to use smartphones to call or send alerts
Emergency Services for Women and Children
Women Safety Helpline: 1091
Linked to the 112 system, this number ensures prompt police intervention in cases of domestic abuse, harassment, or threat.
Childline: 1098
For reporting child abuse, trafficking, child labor, or a lost child.
Mental Health Crisis
India also has helplines for mental health support:
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iCall: +91 9152987821
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AASRA: +91 9820466726
Conclusion
In a country as vast and diverse as India, timely access to emergency services can be the difference between life and death. The introduction of the 112 emergency service number in India is a commendable step toward building a faster, more integrated, and more efficient emergency response system for its citizens. With a single number now connecting you to police, fire, and medical help, India is moving closer to a more accessible and reliable public safety infrastructure.
However, awareness is key. Despite the existence of 112, many people still rely on older numbers like 100, 101, or 108—some of which continue to operate in parallel. Others may not be aware of newer, faster alternatives like private ambulance services from VMEDO, especially in urban centers where speed, specialization, and availability play a crucial role. Whether you’re at home, traveling, or organizing an event, knowing which number to call, and when, can significantly reduce response time and improve outcomes.
Preparedness goes beyond just memorizing numbers—it means teaching your family, especially children and the elderly, how to act in emergencies. It means installing trusted emergency apps, saving key contacts in your phone, and staying informed about services available in your area.
In today’s fast-paced world, emergencies may be unavoidable—but being prepared isn’t. Save the emergency service number in India (112), download trusted apps like 112 India and VMEDO, and share this information with others. Because in critical moments, knowledge isn’t just power—it’s protection.