On October 1, 2024, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, launched the Cruise Bharat Mission from the Mumbai port. This initiative aims to enhance the cruise tourism potential of India and double cruise passenger traffic by 2029.
Objectives of the Cruise Bharat Mission
The Cruise Bharat Mission aims to transform India into a global hub for cruise tourism, promoting the country as a premier cruise destination. The program will be implemented in three phases:
Phase 1 (October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025)
- Conduct studies and master planning.
- Form alliances with neighboring countries.
- Modernize existing cruise terminals and marinas.
Phase 2 (October 1, 2025 – March 31, 2027)
- Develop new cruise terminals and marinas.
- Activate high-potential cruise locations.
Phase 3 (April 1, 2027 – March 31, 2029)
- Integrate all cruise circuits across the Indian subcontinent.
- Continue the development of cruise infrastructure.
Key Performance Targets
The mission has set ambitious targets for growth across various sectors:
- Sea Cruise Passengers: Increase from 0.5 million in Phase 1 to 1 million by Phase 3.
- River Cruise Passengers: Grow from 0.5 million in Phase 1 to 1.5 million by Phase 3.
- International Cruise Terminals: Expand from 2 in Phase 1 to 10 by Phase 3.
- Marinas: Increase from 1 to 5 by Phase 3.
- Employment: Generate an increase from 0.1 million to 0.4 million jobs by 2029.
Ministerial Statements
During the launch, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized that the Cruise Bharat Mission is a significant step in revamping India’s cruise sector. He highlighted the government’s commitment to harness the Blue Economy potential of India, aiming to transform the maritime landscape and utilize the country’s vast coastline and waterways for cruise tourism.
Shri Sonowal stated, “The mission will develop world-class infrastructure and enable growth in cruise tourism and maritime trade, focusing on sustainability and resource management.”
Expected Growth
- Cruise Calls: From 254 in 2024 to 500 by 2030 and 1,100 by 2047.
- Passenger Growth: Expected rise from 4.6 lakh in 2024 to 5 million by 2047.
- Employment Opportunities: Creation of 4 lakh jobs in the cruise sector by 2047.
Key Segments of the Mission
The Cruise Bharat Mission focuses on three key cruise segments:
- Ocean & Harbour Cruises: Includes deep-sea and coastal cruises, yachting, and sailing.
- River & Inland Cruises: Covers cruises on canals, backwaters, creeks, and lakes.
- Island Cruises: Involves inter-island cruises, lighthouse tours, and boutique cruises to lesser-known destinations.
Strategic Initiatives
The mission identifies five strategic pillars to guide its implementation:
- Sustainable Infrastructure & Capital: Development of terminals, marinas, and water aerodromes, alongside digitalization efforts.
- Operations Including Technology: Streamlining operations and enhancing passenger experience through digital solutions.
- Cruise Promotion & Circuit Integration: International marketing, investment promotion, and linking cruise circuits.
- Regulatory, Fiscal & Financial Policy: Creation of tailored policies, including a National Cruise Tourism Policy.
- Capacity Building and Economic Research: Skill development and establishment of a Centre of Excellence in cruise research.
Conclusion
The Cruise Bharat Mission is set to elevate India’s cruise tourism sector and create lasting opportunities for the future. The event witnessed participation from key leaders in the cruise industry, government officials, and stakeholders.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the main objective of the Cruise Bharat Mission?
- A) To increase domestic shipping traffic
- B) To boost cruise tourism in India
- C) To develop fishing industries
- D) To promote agricultural exports
Answer: B) To boost cruise tourism in India
- How many phases will the Cruise Bharat Mission be implemented in?
- A) Two
- B) Three
- C) Four
- D) Five
Answer: B) Three
- What is the target for sea cruise passengers by the end of Phase 3?
- A) 500,000
- B) 1 million
- C) 1.5 million
- D) 2 million
Answer: B) 1 million
- Which pillar focuses on developing world-class terminals and digitalization?
- A) Operations Including Technology
- B) Capacity Building and Economic Research
- C) Sustainable Infrastructure & Capital
- D) Cruise Promotion & Circuit Integration
Answer: C) Sustainable Infrastructure & Capital
- What growth in employment is expected by the end of Phase 3?
- A) 100,000 jobs
- B) 200,000 jobs
- C) 300,000 jobs
- D) 400,000 jobs
Answer: D) 400,000 jobs