Cruise Bharat Mission to Boost India’s Cruise Tourism and Job Creation by 2029

The central government launched the five-year Cruise Bharat Mission to boost cruise tourism in India, aiming to attract one million passengers and create 400,000 jobs by 2029. As part of the mission, financial incentives, relaxation of cabotage laws, and the establishment of a special fund will be implemented.

The mission is set to be completed in three phases, with the Center aiming to increase sea cruise calls from 125 to 500 by Phase 3. Market research will be conducted until October 2025 to identify projects for future funding and regulations. The focus will shift towards developing new cruise terminals, marinas, and destinations between 2025 and 2027 to activate high-potential cruise places and circuits, with plans to interconnect all cruise circuits throughout the Indian Subcontinent in Phase 3.

By the final phase of the mission, the number of river cruise passengers is expected to reach 1.5 million, up from 0.5 million in Phase 1. Employment opportunities are projected to increase from 100,000 to 400,000, with the number of marinas growing from one to five. A special purpose vehicle will be created under the Indian Ports Association for cruise development, and a cruise development cess may be imposed at major ports to raise funds for a specific cruise fund, alongside other industry sources. Additionally, the government will collaborate with skill councils to develop cruise-specific National Occupational Standards and promote youth employment to achieve its job creation goals. Moreover, forming Cruise Alliances with neighboring countries is also part of the government’s strategy to enhance international cruise outreach.

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