Gujarat is leading the way for cruise tourism in India. The state has the longest coastline in the country, stretching 2,340 km. It is now the first state to lead the Cruise India Mission. This mission aims to create new economic opportunities by promoting cruise tourism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a vision to develop a world-class cruise tourism industry in India. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat is actively shaping the national cruise agenda. The Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) hosted a one-day workshop on May 6 to outline the cruise shipping policy. Various stakeholders attended this important event.
During the workshop, key figures from GMB spoke. Chief Nautical Officer Captain Banshivala Ladva and Vice Chairman and CEO Rajkumar Beniwal highlighted Gujarat’s growing maritime capabilities and economic opportunities in cruise tourism. They discussed the need for a strong policy framework to develop the cruise sector in India. The first session included discussions among maritime and tourism experts on the topic “Policy and Infrastructure: Laying the Foundation for Cruise Development in India.” Rajiv Jalota, an advisor from the Indian Ports Association, provided an outline of strategic goals under the Cruise India Mission.
Sushil Kumar Singh, Chairman of Mumbai Port Authority, stressed the importance of port readiness and clear berthing policies. Krishna Raj R. from Cochin focused on organizing immigration and coastal processes. Gautam Day, CEO of Goa International Cruise Terminal, emphasized the need for infrastructure upgrades and skill development.
Rajkumar Beniwal shared Gujarat’s roadmap. He talked about creating policies that correspond to investments aimed at developing world-class cruise terminals in the state. Saidingpui Chhakchhuak, Managing Director of Gujarat Tourism, presented strategies to develop cruise-ready destinations and offshore tourism for travellers. Krishna Raj (IPS) highlighted the need for efficient immigration processes and recommended using digital technology for managing tourists.
Ashwini Kumar, the Chief Secretary of the Ports and Transport Department, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to establishing Gujarat as a leading cruise hub. He mentioned that the state’s comprehensive approach, infrastructure, policies, and tourism development will set an example for other states.
During the Q&A session, participants shared their thoughts on creating a strong cruise policy for the state. A panel discussion addressed current challenges and explored future possibilities in the cruise sector. This session became an important platform for exchanging ideas between participants and industry leaders.
As part of the Cruise India Mission, Gujarat proposed various potential cruise circuits along its western coastline. Key destinations include Diu, Veraval, Porbandar, Dwarka, Jamnagar, Okha, and Padhala Island, along with the operational Ghogha-Hazira Ro-Pax service. The proposed routes are divided into three clusters:
1. Padhala Island – Kutch Rann
2. Porbandar – Veraval – Diu
3. Dwarka – Okha – Jamnagar
Each cluster is organized with tourism in mind. The aim is to ensure that major religious, natural, and cultural sites are included within a 100 km radius of each cluster. This will provide cruise travellers with more attractions and entertainment options.
Gujarat will have a dedicated cruise terminal, contributing to the national mission. The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, launched the Cruise India Mission on September 30, 2024. This mission aims to make India a global cruise tourism hub within the next decade and increase cruise tourism tenfold by 2029. Major ports like Mumbai, Cochin, Chennai, and Mormugao have made significant progress in developing cruise terminals. Gujarat is also set to contribute significantly by establishing a dedicated cruise terminal as part of this national mission.
The recent workshop marks an important step in this direction. Through this workshop, there is hope for developing a comprehensive and effective cruise tourism policy for Gujarat. With a clear vision, government support, and strategic infrastructural plans, Gujarat is poised to become a leader in India’s cruise tourism sector.
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