Question:
Write a critically argued essay on nautical tourism and its infrastructure in India.
(UPSC 2025, Paper 2, Geography Optional PYQ)
Answer.
Nautical tourism refers to recreational activities associated with seas, oceans, rivers, and coastal environments, such as cruising, sailing, yachting, ferry tourism, and water sports. With a coastline of about 7,500 km, India possesses immense potential for its development within the broader framework of the Blue Economy.
India’s nautical tourism has grown significantly in recent years. Cruise passenger traffic increased from around 0.4 million in 2014 to nearly 0.5 million pre-pandemic, and policy initiatives aim to double it in the coming years. Major hubs include Mumbai, Goa, Kochi, and Chennai, along with river cruise circuits on the Ganga and Brahmaputra.
Infrastructure related to Nautical tourism in India:
Port & Terminal Infrastructure: Dedicated cruise terminals at Mumbai and Mormugao; under Sagarmala, new terminals and jetties are being developed.
Marinas & Yacht Facilities: Limited marina infrastructure exists in Goa and Kochi, constraining luxury nautical tourism.
Connectivity: Coastal shipping, inland waterways, and multimodal transport are being integrated under national schemes.
Hospitality & Safety Systems: Coastal tourism infrastructure includes rescue systems, navigation support, and tourism services.
Critical Issues:
Despite potential, growth remains uneven due to poor last-mile connectivity, environmental concerns, limited private investment, and regulatory complexity. Seasonal monsoon conditions and coastal vulnerability further constrain year-round operations.
Way Forward:
Holistic planning through integrated coastal zone management, PPP-based marina development, and sustainable tourism models is essential. Initiatives like the Cruise Bharat Mission aim to enhance capacity, employment, and global competitiveness.
Nautical tourism can become a key growth driver of India’s coastal economy, but its success depends on balancing infrastructure expansion with environmental sustainability and institutional coordination.
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