Sail from Narmada to the Statue of Unity on a Scenic River Cruise
New Delhi: Now you can Sail from Narmada to the Statue of Unity on a Scenic River Cruise.The Maharashtra Government is taking bold steps to transform its tourism and hospitality sectors with a significant new investment aimed at promoting river cruising. Central to this initiative is the development of several river cruise routes that will capitalize on the state’s vast river network. Among the most anticipated routes is the Nandurbar-Statue of Unity cruise, which is expected to become a key attraction. Additionally, the Vashishti River in Konkan and the Godavari River in Nashik are earmarked for cruise tourism, offering diverse and picturesque experiences for travelers.
To facilitate this emerging sector, Maharashtra plans to construct new ports along the Konkan coast, improving connectivity and accessibility for river cruises. The state government has committed to providing incentives worth INR 1,666 crore this fiscal year, with similar funding planned over the next decade. The aim is to attract INR 1 lakh crore in investments, potentially creating up to 18 lakh direct and indirect jobs over the next ten years. This initiative is poised to deliver a substantial economic boost to the region.
Maharashtra’s new tourism policy is designed to establish the state as a premier destination for river cruising, a niche market within the broader cruise industry. Unlike sea cruises, river cruises offer the advantage of year-round operation, ensuring consistent tourism activity regardless of the season. The state’s extensive river network, including the Narmada, Vashishti, Godavari, Savitri, Krishna, and Tapi rivers, provides a wealth of natural beauty and cultural heritage for travelers to explore.
The government is offering a range of incentives to attract investment, including capital investment subsidies of 15-20% or up to INR 20 crore, whichever is less. Additional benefits include exemptions on SGST, electricity duty, tariffs, and stamp duty, depending on the project’s eligibility period, which ranges from 5 to 15 years.
Beyond boosting tourism, this policy aims to showcase Maharashtrian hospitality by allowing travelers to immerse themselves in local culture. River cruises will enable tourists to visit traditional villages, historical sites, and experience regional cuisine and arts. Furthermore, these cruises are expected to promote ecotourism by offering activities like bird watching, nature walks, and visits to wildlife sanctuaries along the riverbanks.
With these comprehensive plans, Maharashtra is poised to become a significant player in the river cruising industry, offering travelers a unique blend of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and sustainable tourism opportunities. The prospect of exploring Maharashtra’s rich heritage from the water is an exciting new chapter in the state’s tourism journey.
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