MoPSW announces an investment worth Rs 450 billion for river cruise tourism

On January 8, 2024, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) announced an investment worth Rs 450 billion to develop river cruise tourism. Of this, an estimated amount of Rs 350 billion has been earmarked for cruise vessels and Rs 100 billion for development of cruise terminal infrastructure by 2047. The Inland Waterways Development Council’s goal is to achieve sustainable development for an Atmanirbhar Bharat by the end of Amrit Kaal (2047). The plan expansion of river cruise tourism from eight to 26 waterways and increasing cruise circuits with night stays from 17 to 80. Moreover, the number of river cruise terminals is expected to increase from 15 to 185. The MoPSW also launched the ‘Harit Nauka’ guidelines and ‘River Cruise Tourism Roadmap, 2047 on the same day. The river cruise tourism roadmap outlines over 30 potential cruise routes, including an action plan for river cruise development.