The Indian government has taken a significant step towards the development of cruise tourism in the country by formulating a comprehensive national strategy. The information came from Union Tourism Minister G Kishen Reddy, ahead of Honorable Prime Minister’s inauguration of the longest river cruise from Varanasi to Dibrugarh, via Bangladesh.

With the aim of leveraging India's vast coastline having 12 Major and 200 minor ports and maritime heritage, the strategy focuses on infrastructure development, integrated tourism and cruise terminals, market enhancement, and skill development for Cruise Tourism among other things to attract both domestic and international tourists.

The Ministry of Tourism offers financial support to State Governments, UT Administrations, and Central Government Agencies for tourism development, including Cruise Tourism and river cruising. This assistance falls under the 'Assistance to Central Agencies for Tourism Infrastructure development' scheme.

The national strategy is set to strengthen India's position in the global cruise tourism market, providing new avenues for economic growth and employment opportunities in the hospitality and allied sectors.