Telangana has become the 15th Indian state to establish a dedicated Tourism Police unit, marking a major milestone in strengthening tourist safety and hospitality. The first batch of 80 personnel began their week-long induction programme at the National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management (NITHM), Gachibowli. Organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Telangana, this initiative aims to provide a safer, friendlier environment for both domestic and international travellers while enhancing the overall tourism ecosystem.
The programme, titled “Orientation and Sensitisation of Tourist Police,” focuses on building capacity, improving visitor facilitation, and fostering professionalism among officers. The inaugural ceremony was attended by Sri Mahesh M. Bhagwat, IPS, Additional Director General of Police (Law & Order), Telangana, as Chief Guest, alongside Prof. V. Venkata Ramana, Director of NITHM, and senior officials from FTCCI and the Department of Tourism. Their participation reflects strong inter-departmental coordination in ensuring Telangana’s position as a visitor-friendly state.
During his address, Sri Mahesh Bhagwat emphasised that the Tourism Police initiative showcases a collaborative effort between the Police and Tourism & Culture Departments. He highlighted the importance of ensuring tourists not only feel safe but also experience genuine hospitality. Prof. Venkata Ramana added that such measures help reinforce Telangana’s positive global image by developing skilled personnel capable of assisting visitors with courtesy and competence.
The 80 trained Tourism Police officers will be strategically deployed across nine Commissionerates, covering key tourist attractions such as Somasila, Ananthagiri, Ramappa, Yadagirigutta, Pochampally, Buddhavanam, Bhadrachalam, and Hyderabad. Their presence at these high-traffic destinations is expected to reassure visitors and promote responsible tourism practices throughout the state.
D. Ramachandram, Co-Chairman of the FTCCI Tourism Committee, noted that Telangana now has one of the largest dedicated Tourism Police forces in India. He compared the move to Kerala’s pioneering model launched in 2010, stating that Telangana’s effort represents a forward-thinking approach to tourism safety and visitor engagement, aligning with international standards.
The induction training includes modules on soft skills, emergency response, public facilitation, ethics, cyber awareness, and crowd management. Conducted by NITHM experts, the course blends practical training with real-world scenarios. Through this proactive initiative, Telangana demonstrates its commitment to sustainable tourism, visitor satisfaction, and maintaining its reputation as one of India’s most progressive and welcoming travel destinations.
