Maharashtra to Introduce ‘Tourism Security Force’ to Enhance Tourist Safety
Maharashtra to Introduce ‘Tourism Security Force’ to Enhance Tourist Safety
Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai stated that the force will not only safeguard visitors but also provide them with essential information about the state’s heritage, laws, and attractions, helping to foster sustainable tourism.
In response to growing concerns over tourist safety following the recent Pahalgam terror attack, the Maharashtra government has announced the formation of a dedicated Tourism Security Force, named Paryatan Mitra. This new initiative aims to ensure a safe and secure environment for tourists while promoting Maharashtra as a reliable and attractive travel destination. Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai stated that the force will not only safeguard visitors but also provide them with essential information about the state’s heritage, laws, and attractions, helping to foster sustainable tourism.
“The government has decided to form Maharashtra Tourism Security Force. The decision has been taken in view of increasing opportunities in the tourism sector, diversity with regards to geography and culture in the state and to give a secured tourist experience. They will also be posted for the security of the tourists. This will increase employment opportunities in the state. They will take training to give information as well as protection to the tourists,” informs Desai.
The initiative will be launched on a pilot basis during the Mahabaleshwar Festival, scheduled from May 1 to May 4, 2025, in Satara district. A team of 25 specially trained personnel will be deployed through the Satara Superintendent of Police’s office, with the force remaining active until August 31, 2025. These personnel will undergo specific training to assist tourists, respond effectively in emergencies, and operate modern surveillance and communication systems. Facilities such as CCTV monitoring, helpline services, and immediate response mechanisms will be made available at key locations.
The Tourism Department plans to hire tourism police on a contractual basis to instill a greater sense of safety among visitors. Instructions have already been issued to the Maharashtra State Security Board and the Maharashtra Ex-Servicemen Corporation Ltd. (MESCO) to submit a list of suitable candidates for deployment. Senior officers will be appointed to oversee the operations and ensure accountability during the pilot phase.
According to Principal Secretary Atul Patne, this is a vital step toward establishing a robust safety net for tourists across the state. The costs of implementing the project will be jointly borne by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, the Maharashtra State Security Corporation, and the Satara police department.
If the pilot phase is successful, the state plans to scale up the initiative and formally establish a statewide Tourism Security Force. The broader objective is to attract ₹1 lakh crore in private investment and generate around 18 lakh direct and indirect jobs in the tourism sector over the coming years.
