Will 51 new cruise circuits be operational across 14 states and 3 UTs by 2027?
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Synopsis
The Indian government has unveiled an ambitious plan to establish 51 new river cruise circuits by 2027 across 14 states and 3 UTs, aiming to triple river cruise passengers. This initiative promises to enhance infrastructure, promote eco-friendly tourism, and create jobs, marking a significant step towards revitalizing India's river cruise sector and attracting international interest.
Key Takeaways
- 51 new river cruise circuits are set to be developed across 14 states and 3 UTs by 2027.
- The Cruise Bharat Mission aims to triple river cruise passengers from 0.5 million to 1.5 million.
- Focus on eco-friendly tourism practices and job creation in the cruise industry.
- Notable growth in river cruise voyages indicates rising popularity.
- New partnerships with state governments enhance tourism opportunities.
New Delhi, July 21 (NationPress) The central government announced on Monday its ambitious plan to create 51 new river cruise circuits spanning 47 national waterways across 14 states and three union territories (UTs) by the year 2027.
Through the launch of the Cruise Bharat Mission, the government aims to boost river cruise passenger numbers from 0.5 million to 1.5 million, as stated by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
This initiative emphasizes the enhancement of cruise terminals, ports, and associated infrastructure, while also advocating eco-friendly tourism practices that utilize green vessels. Furthermore, it is expected to generate numerous job opportunities within the cruise industry over the next two years.
The river cruise tourism segment in India has experienced remarkable growth, with the frequency of river cruise voyages on National Waterways rising from 371 in 2023-24 to 443 in 2024-25.
This represents a 19.4 percent increase, highlighting the growing popularity and operational effectiveness of river cruises within India’s inland waterways.
To further bolster this trend, Viking Cruises has declared its entry into India's river cruise sector with the Viking Brahmaputra, an 80-guest vessel set to commence operations in late 2027. This move indicates a surge in interest and investment in India’s river cruise tourism.
The Viking Brahmaputra is to be locally built by Hooghly Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kolkata and will operate on National Waterway-2.
In alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision and the guidance of Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is making significant progress in promoting river cruise tourism and establishing a sustainable water transport system throughout the country.
The sector has seen extraordinary growth over the past 11 years; moving from just five vessels on three waterways in 2013–14 to 25 vessels across 13 national waterways by 2024–25.
The IWAI has recently entered into agreements with various state governments to promote cruise tourism on National Waterways. Partnerships include collaborations with the governments of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh for cruise tourism on River Narmada, the Delhi government for operating ferries and cruises on the Yamuna River, and the government of Jammu and Kashmir for sustainable tourism initiatives on the Jhelum, Ravi, and Chenab rivers.
Additionally, the IWAI is working on developing dedicated cruise terminals on the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers, with three terminals planned in Varanasi, Guwahati, Kolkata, and Patna.
In the northeast region, four more cruise terminals at Silghat, Biswanath Ghat, Neamati, and Guijan are projected to be constructed by 2027.
Point of View
This initiative represents a significant stride in enhancing India's tourism landscape. The government's focus on sustainable practices and infrastructure development resonates with current global trends and underscores a commitment to not only boost the economy but also preserve the environment. This approach aligns with the nation's vision for growth, making it a pivotal moment for India’s river cruise industry.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the goals of the Cruise Bharat Mission?
The Cruise Bharat Mission aims to develop new river cruise circuits, boost passenger numbers from 0.5 million to 1.5 million, enhance infrastructure, and promote eco-friendly tourism practices.
How many new river cruise circuits are planned?
The government plans to establish 51 new river cruise circuits across 14 states and 3 union territories by 2027.
What is the expected growth in river cruise voyages?
The number of river cruise voyages is projected to increase from 371 in 2023-24 to 443 in 2024-25, reflecting a growth of 19.4 percent.
Who is behind the Viking Brahmaputra?
Viking Cruises is launching the Viking Brahmaputra, an 80-guest vessel scheduled to begin operations in late 2027, developed by Hooghly Cochin Shipyard Limited.
What partnerships has IWAI formed to promote cruise tourism?
IWAI has signed agreements with state governments, including Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh for River Narmada, Delhi for the Yamuna River, and Jammu and Kashmir for Jhelum, Ravi, and Chenab rivers.
