Cruise Bharat Mission, recently launched by the Indian government, is set to transform the nation’s cruise tourism landscape over the next five years. By 2029, the mission aims to attract 1 million cruise passengers and create 400,000 new jobs, positioning India as a top global destination for cruise travel.

The mission focuses on three core pillars to achieve these ambitious goals: the establishment of a dedicated cruise development fund, the relaxation of cabotage laws to boost domestic and international cruise traffic, and the provision of financial incentives to promote sector growth. The plan will unfold in three phases, each designed to build momentum and expand India’s cruise tourism infrastructure and offerings.

Phase one, which will run until October 2025, focuses on gathering market insights and identifying key projects that will benefit from regulatory and financial support. During this period, the government will conduct detailed studies to pinpoint high-potential cruise destinations and circuits. In the second phase, from 2025 to 2027, efforts will shift towards the development of cruise terminals, marinas, and new tourist destinations, creating a network of high-traffic locations ready to accommodate a growing number of cruise calls. The third and final phase aims to integrate all cruise circuits across the Indian subcontinent, establishing a seamless network that appeals to both domestic and international travelers.

The mission will also see the creation of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) under the Indian Ports Association (IPA) to oversee cruise infrastructure development. Additionally, a ‘cruise development cess’ will be introduced at major ports, generating revenue for the mission’s special fund, which will also be supported by industry contributions.

One of the key goals of Cruise Bharat Mission is to significantly boost employment. The initiative plans to create 400,000 jobs by establishing National Occupational Standards (NOS) specifically for the cruise industry. This effort will be facilitated through various skill councils under the National Skill Development Council, with a focus on empowering youth and fostering specialized talent.

To further enhance India’s cruise tourism appeal, the mission also aims to forge Cruise Alliances with neighboring countries such as the UAE, Maldives, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. These strategic partnerships will strengthen India’s regional cruise connectivity, creating new routes and expanding the scope of cruise tourism across the Indian Ocean region.

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