Exploring Indian Sea Tourism: Boosting Cruise, Adventure and Seaplane Initiatives
Discover how the Indian government is promoting sea tourism through initiatives in cruise, adventure, and seaplane tourism. Learn about the National Strategy for Cruise Tourism, recent project funding, and the impact on local economies as India aims to enhance its global tourism profile.
Jotirmoy Roy, AB News, New Delhi: The Ministry of Tourism is actively promoting India as a premier global destination for sea tourism, tapping into the vast potential offered by cruise, adventure and seaplane tourism. As part of its comprehensive strategy to harness the country’s coastal assets and waterways, the government is rolling out several initiatives and financial schemes aimed at enhancing tourism infrastructure and ensuring visitor safety.
Promotion of Cruise and Adventure Tourism
The Indian Ministry of Tourism has crafted a National Strategy for Cruise Tourism, aimed at positioning India favorably on the international cruise tourism map. This strategy includes enhancing port facilities and improving overall tourism infrastructure. To fund these developments, the government extends financial assistance to State Governments, Union Territories, and Central Government agencies under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme and the scheme for ‘Assistance to Central Agencies’ for tourism infrastructure development.
Recent Projects Under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme
The Swadesh Darshan Scheme has allocated substantial funds for developing various coastal circuits and cruise tourism projects across India. Here’s a snapshot of some sanctioned projects:
- Andhra Pradesh: Development of Kakinada and adjacent regions — ₹67.83 crore (2014-15)
- Goa: Development of Sinquerim-Baga and surrounding areas — ₹97.65 crore (2016-17)
- Tamil Nadu: Development of the coastal circuit including Chennai and Kanyakumari — ₹73.13 crore (2016-17)
- Kerala: Malanad Malabar Cruise Tourism Project — ₹57.35 crore (2018-19)
- Puducherry: Development of various beachfronts and tourism areas — ₹58.44 crore (2015-16)
In total, these projects initiated under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme amount to ₹688.74 crore, showcasing a significant commitment to bolster coastal tourism.
Infrastructure Development for Ports and Waterways
The government’s focus on improving infrastructure at key ports is evident from the financial outlay for modernization efforts. Below are some notable projects sanctioned for port development:
- Chennai Port: Cruise Passenger Facilities Centre — ₹17.24 crore (2012-13)
- Mormugao Port: Improvements for international cruise vessels — ₹50.00 crore (2021-22)
- Cochin Port: Upgrades to the cruise terminal and walkway facilities totaling over ₹2.4 crore across multiple years (2016-2020)
These projects, totaling ₹239.29 crore, are designed to enhance the cruise experience and cater to the growing influx of international tourists arriving by sea.
Adventure Tourism Initiative
To capitalize on adventure tourism, the Ministry has introduced a National Strategy for Adventure Tourism. This strategy focuses on:
- Developing Adventure Destinations: Identifying and promoting locations suited for adventure activities such as trekking, water sports, and wildlife experiences.
- Safety and Skill Development: Emphasizing the importance of safety protocols and offering skill development programs for adventure service providers.
- Capacity Building: Equipping local entrepreneurs and communities to manage and promote adventure tourism responsibly.
Benefits for Local Economies
The push for sea tourism is anticipated to have a manifold impact on local economies, creating jobs, driving infrastructure development, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. By enhancing access to coastal and marine resources, local communities are expected to benefit from increased tourist footfall and heightened business activities.
The Road Ahead
With the strategic initiatives outlined by the Ministry of Tourism, the focus on creating a comprehensive tourism framework enhances India’s position as a tourist hub. The integration of cruise and adventure tourism not only boosts India’s international profile but also provides a blueprint for sustainable local economic development.
As India continues to develop its coastal tourism potential, the combination of financial investment, strategic planning, and local empowerment will play a crucial role in transforming the tourism landscape. With ongoing efforts in place, the country is poised to ride the wave of opportunity presented by sea tourism.
