Centre launches Incredible India helpline for women tourists

Aiming to ensure the safety of women tourists - domestic and international - the union tourism ministry has launched "Incredible India Helpline" on a pilot basis, parliament was informed on Monday.

Minister of Tourism and Culture Mahesh Sharma, in a written reply to the Lok Sabha, said various steps have been taken to ensure women tourists' safety.

The National Crime Records Bureau, however, doesn't maintain information regarding crimes against women tourists, he added.

Besides the helplines 1800111363, 1363, the minister said all states have been asked to ensure a conducive and friendly environment for all tourists and a set of guidelines to encourage tourism activities, with respect to basic rights like dignity, safety and freedom.