Cruise Bharat Mission (CBM) 

Context –

Recently, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW) launched the ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ from the Mumbai port.

About Cruise Bharat Mission

• It is  a five-year initiative to enhance cruise tourism in India. 
• Nodal Ministry: The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways
• This mission will be implemented in three phases
  • Three-Phase Implementation:
    • Phase 1 (Until October 2025)
    • Phase 2 (2025-2027)
    • Phase 3  (2027 – 2029)
• Key Objectives:
  • Increase cruise passengers to 1 million by 2029.
  • Create 400,000 jobs in the cruise tourism sector.
  • Develop world-class cruise infrastructure.

• The mission has identified key initiatives across five strategic pillars –

• The Sustainable Infrastructure & Capital: It addresses infrastructure gaps, focusing on developing world-class terminals, marinas, water aerodromes, and heliports, alongside digitalisation (e.g., facial recognition) and decarbonisation (e.g., shore power).It includes creating a National Cruise Infrastructure Masterplan 2047, setting up a cruise-focused SPV under Indian Ports Association (IPA), and establishing a cruise development fund.
• The Operations Including Technology Enabled: This pillar aims to streamline operations, ensuring smooth embarkation, disembarkation, and destination visits with a focus on digital solutions such as e-clearance systems and e-visa facilities.
• The Cruise Promotion & Circuit Integration: It focuses on international marketing and investment promotion, including linking cruise circuits, hosting events like the “Cruise India Summit,” and forming alliances with neighbouring countries.
• The Regulatory, Fiscal & Financial Policy: This pillar is centred on creating tailored fiscal and financial policies, with a focus on tax scenarios, cruise regulations, and the launch of a National Cruise Tourism Policy.
• The Capacity Building and Economic Research: This pillar emphasizes skill development, creating a Centre of Excellence for cruise-related economic research, and formulating National Occupational Standards to promote youth employment in the cruise industry.

Significance of Mission 

Developing world class infrastructure which can be also leveraged for maritime trade, etc.

Employment generation, creation of 4 lakh jobs in the revamped Cruise Sector.

Promote the cultural, historical, and natural circuits of the Indian Subcontinent.

CBL Practice Questions for Prelims

What is the primary objective of the Cruise Bharat Mission (CBM)?

A) To promote inland waterways transport
B) To enhance the domestic cruise tourism industry
C) To improve freight transportation on highways
D) To develop new railway routes

Answer: B) To enhance the domestic cruise tourism industry

CBL Mains Practice Question

Discuss the role of technology in enhancing the experience of cruise passengers under the Cruise Bharat Mission. What innovative solutions could be implemented to improve safety and efficiency?

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