On September 30, 2024, Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW), launched the Cruise Bharat Mission from the Mumbai Port.
This mission aims to harness the potential of India’s vast coastline for cruise tourism and transform the country into a leading cruise destination.
Key Objectives of the Cruise Bharat Mission:
- Phased Implementation:
- Phase 1 (Oct 2024 – Sept 2025): Modernize infrastructure and form cruise alliances.
- Phase 2 (Oct 2025 – Mar 2027): Activate new cruise terminals and circuits.
- Phase 3 (Apr 2027 – Mar 2029): Integrate cruise circuits across the Indian subcontinent.
- Increase in Cruise Passenger Traffic:
- Double cruise passenger traffic within five years.
- Increase from 125 to 500
- River cruise passengers to grow from 5 million to 1.5 million by Phase 3.
- Development of Cruise Infrastructure:
- International cruise terminals to expand from 2 to
- River cruise terminals to grow from 50 to
- Continue developing new terminals and modernizing existing ones.
Across five strategic pillars, the mission has identified important initiatives:
- Sustainable Infrastructure & Capital: Focus on addressing infrastructure gaps by developing terminals, marinas, water aerodromes, and heliports; also emphasizes digitalization (g., facial recognition), decarbonization, and creating a Cruise Infrastructure Masterplan 2047 and a cruise-focused fund under the Indian Ports Association.
- Operations & Technology: Streamlining operations for smooth embarkation and disembarkation, with digital solutions like e-clearance systems and e-visa facilities.
- Cruise Promotion & Circuit Integration: International marketing, investment promotion, linking cruise circuits, hosting events (e.g., Cruise India Summit), and forming alliances with neighboring countries.
- Regulatory, Fiscal & Financial Policy: Developing tailored policies, tax scenarios, cruise regulations, and launching a National Cruise Tourism Policy.
- Capacity Building & Economic Research: Focus on skill development, creating a Centre of Excellence for cruise economic research, and establishing National Occupational Standards to boost youth employment in the cruise sector.
Benefits of Cruise Tourism for the Indian Economy
- Job Creation: Generates employment in tourism, hospitality, and related sectors.
- Boost to Local Economies: Increases spending on local goods and services, enhancing regional economic development.
- Infrastructure Development: Encourages investment in ports, marinas, and other tourism infrastructure.
- Government Revenue: Generates taxes, port fees, and foreign exchange earnings.
- Cultural Promotion: Showcases India’s heritage and attractions to international visitors.
- Multiplier Effect: Stimulates related industries like shipping, retail, and entertainment.
- Utilization of Coastal Resources: Promotes sustainable use of India’s coastline and rivers for tourism.
Challenges of Cruise Tourism in India
- Infrastructure Deficiency: Lack of world-class ports and facilities.
- Environmental Impact: Pollution and ecosystem damage from cruise operations.
- Regulatory Issues: Complicated maritime and tourism regulations hinder growth.
- Limited Domestic Demand: Low awareness and interest among Indian tourists.
- Seasonality: Monsoons and harsh weather limit operational periods.
- High Operational Costs: Elevated port fees and maintenance expenses.
- Security Concerns: Ensuring safety in regions with geopolitical tensions.
The Cruise Bharat Mission is seen as a part of India’s Blue Economy, leveraging the country’s coastline and waterways for tourism and economic growth. It aligns with India’s commitment to becoming a global hub for cruise tourism by 2029.
