Maharashtra to establish ‘Tourism Security Force’ at popular destinations

Maharashtra government establishes Tourism Security Force to enhance tourist safety, boost tourism, and create employment opportunities.

Following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Maharashtra government has established a ‘Tourism Security Force (Paryatan Mitra)‘ to boost tourism and prioritise tourist safety in the State. Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai said he aims to provide tourists a safe and secure experience through this initiative.

The Maharashtra Tourism Security Force will be started on a pilot basis during the Mahabaleshwar festival in Satara district, which will be held from May 1 to May 4. 

The Tourism Department will appoint tourism police on a contractual basis to create a sense of security among the tourists coming to the State. Mr. Desai said, “The force will also provide necessary information about the culture, history, tourist places, laws, rules and tourism, promoting sustainable tourism.”

The Tourism Department has directed the State Security Board and Maharashtra Ex-Servicemen Corporation Ltd. (MESCO) to submit the details of their employees as soon as possible.

“The launching of the Tourism Security Force will give a new lease of life to tourism and, at the same time, create new employment opportunities at local places,” stated Mr. Desai. 

The force will undergo special training to guide and protect tourists and have modern technology and a coordinated system to respond immediately in emergencies. Facilities like CCTV, helpline and an immediate response system will be available at tourist destinations.

Principal Secretary Atul Patne also mentioned that this is a positive step towards creating a security shield for tourists. “It will increase the influx of tourists towards tourism and provide economic benefits to local communities,” said Mr. Patne.