Cruise Bharat Mission

  • 01 Oct 2024

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The central government launched the five-year Cruise Bharat Mission, aiming to boost cruise tourism in India to 1 million passengers and create 400,000 jobs by 2029.

Mission Goals

  • Passenger Traffic: Increase from 0.5 million to 1 million sea cruise passengers by 2029.
  • River Cruise Passengers: Grow from 0.5 million to 1.5 million.
  • Job Creation: Generate 400,000 jobs in the cruise sector.
  • Infrastructure Expansion:
    • International cruise terminals: From 2 to 10.
    • River cruise terminals: From 50 to 100.
    • Marinas: From 1 to 5.

Implementation Phases

  1. Phase 1 (2024-2025):
    • Conduct studies and master planning.
    • Form alliances with neighboring countries.
    • Modernize existing cruise terminals and destinations.
  2. Phase 2 (2025-2027):
    • Develop new cruise terminals and marinas.
    • Activate high-potential cruise locations.
  3. Phase 3 (2027-2029):
    • Integrate cruise circuits across the Indian Subcontinent.
    • Continue developing infrastructure and enhancing cruise experiences.

Strategic Focus Areas

  • Sustainable Infrastructure:
    • Develop world-class terminals, marinas, and water aerodromes.
    • Emphasize digitalization (e.g., facial recognition) and decarbonization (shore power).
    • Create a National Cruise Infrastructure Masterplan 2047.
  • Operational Efficiency:
    • Streamline operations using digital solutions (e.g., e-clearance and e-visa facilities).
  • Cruise Promotion & Circuit Integration:
    • Focus on international marketing and investment.
    • Host events like the "Cruise India Summit."
    • Form alliances with neighboring countries (UAE, Maldives, Singapore).
  • Regulatory and Financial Policies:
    • Establish tailored fiscal and financial policies.
    • Launch a National Cruise Tourism Policy.
  • Capacity Building & Employment:
    • Create a Centre of Excellence for cruise-related economic research.
    • Develop National Occupational Standards to enhance youth employment opportunities.

Expected Outcomes

  • Tourism Growth: Position India as a global cruise destination.
  • Cultural Promotion: Highlight the cultural, historical, and natural heritage of Bharat through cruise circuits.
  • Community Benefits: Ensure inclusive growth for local communities and stakeholders in the cruise sector.

The Cruise Bharat Mission is set to redefine India's cruise tourism landscape, focusing on infrastructure development, operational efficiency, and promoting cultural heritage, while ensuring economic growth and job creation for the future.