Why in the News?

India has launched the Cruise Bharat Mission to boost cruise tourism over five years, aiming to establish 10 sea cruise terminals, 100 river cruise terminals, and five marinas. The mission seeks to double cruise calls and passengers, strengthen regional alliances, and significantly increase sea and river cruise travelers by 2029, enhancing tourism and connectivity across the country.

Cruise Bharat Mission

• Nodal ministry: Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways
• Targets
  • Boost river cruise passengers from 0.5 million to 1.5 million.
  • Create 400,000 jobs by the year 2029.
  • Expand international cruise terminals from 2 to 10 and river cruise terminals from 50 to 100 by Phase 3.
• It will be implemented in 3 Phases; The Centre aims to increase sea cruise calls from 125 to 500 by Phase-3.
  • Phase 1 (2024-2025): Conduct market research, establish cruise alliances, and modernize existing terminals.
  • Phase 2 (2025-2027): Develop new cruise terminals and unlock high-potential areas for tourism.
  • Phase 3 (2027-2029): Connect cruise circuits throughout the Indian subcontinent.
• Key Features
  • Building new terminals, marinas, water aerodromes, and heliports.
  • Prioritizing digitalization (e.g., facial recognition technology) and decarbonization (e.g., shore power solutions).
  • Developing a comprehensive National Cruise Infrastructure Masterplan for 2047.
  • Organizing the "Cruise India Summit" and establish regional alliances with countries such as the UAE, Maldives, and Singapore.
  • Improving processes through digital solutions like e-clearance systems and e-visas.