Gujarat has made history by becoming the first Indian state to support the Cruise Bharat Mission, a significant initiative aimed at enhancing cruise tourism across the country. This milestone move, announced in Ahmedabad, is set to leverage Gujarat’s extensive coastline and establish new cruise routes, propelling India towards becoming a premier global cruise destination by 2029.
Gujarat’s Participation in Cruise Bharat Mission
Gujarat has formally partnered with the Cruise Bharat Mission, inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on September 30, 2024. The mission’s primary objective is to elevate India’s sea cruise traffic tenfold by 2029. Gujarat’s decision places it at the forefront of the nation’s efforts to boost maritime tourism.
- First state to join the Cruise Bharat Mission
- Initiative launched by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal
- Goal to increase India’s sea cruise traffic by 2029
Cruise Circuits and Key Destinations
Gujarat is planning to establish multiple cruise circuits along its expansive western coastline, connecting renowned tourist destinations including Diu, Veraval, Porbandar, Dwarka, Jamnagar, Okha, and the picturesque Padala Island. These circuits will also support the existing Ghogha–Hazira Ro-Pax route.
Coastal Route Clusters
- Padala Island – Rann of Kutch
- Porbandar – Veraval – Diu
- Dwarka – Okha – Jamnagar
These clusters aim to link destinations within a 100-km radius, offering tourists easy access to religious, cultural, and natural sites for a comprehensive travel experience.
Setting a Model for Coastal States
By embracing the Cruise Bharat Mission, Gujarat is paving the way for other coastal states in the country. The state is not only enhancing its tourism infrastructure but also attracting investments, generating local employment opportunities, and promoting cultural tourism.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Gujarat becomes the first state to support the Cruise Bharat Mission, a national initiative for cruise tourism.
- The state aims to develop new cruise circuits along its 2,340 km coastline, connecting key tourist destinations.
- Gujarat’s partnership with the Cruise Bharat Mission sets an example for other coastal states in India to boost maritime tourism.
- The initiative is expected to drive economic growth through increased international and domestic cruise travel along India’s coastline.
