Home Minister Rajnath Singh launched '112', a single emergency helpline number.

Under the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS), users can dial 112, use 112 india app or use panic buttons on their phones to connect to a single number-based emergency service.

It is linked to the police, fire services, health services and other helplines.

Users can press the power button on smart phones three times to activate the panic call and Press '5' or '9' on normal phones.

112 India app provides a 'shout' feature for women and children. The feature will alert registered volunteers in the vicinity for immediate assistance.

Users can also visit ERSS website and send an emergency email or send an 'SOS' alert to the Emergency Report Centre (ERC).

States will have to set up a dedicated ERC where a team of trained call-takers and dispatchers will handle emergency requests.

The service was launched in 14 states, 2 union territories and in Mumbai. The '112' helpline was earlier launched in Himachal Pradesh and Nagaland

It will gradually be extended to other states.