The IA app, which is a subscription-based platform available to foreign tourists on both iOS and Android, acts as an intermediary that connects a person in distress with the appropriate agencies. It goes above and beyond the traditional protection offered by travel insurance; where a travel insurance policy will protect against the financial loss of a stolen phone or lost bag, IA will send someone to help customers at the site of the robbery, take them to the police station to help them file a report, and drop them safely at their hotel.

“There is no centralised mechanism to assist and streamline needs of foreign travellers coming to India. In time of need, they approach locals and are likely to get unverified assistance from them. Through IA we are trying to create a centralised mechanism wherein, through a mobile app, they can get best solutions to their queries,” explained India Assist Founder Harish Khatri.

IA provides online services in all major cities across the country, with ground assistance services currently only available in New Delhi – although the firm also plans to launch these in other cities by the end of 2019.

Khatri disclosed that the recent $1-million-funding will be used to enhance the user experience though tech innovations, as well as new product offerings, marketing and promotions.

In addition, the startup is setting up business process outsourcing units in order to provide instant solutions to users. “Our aim is to have ground personnel within a five-kilometre radius to be able to provide services top our users travelling within the cities,” said Khatri.