The Madhya Pradesh government has drawn up an innovative strategy to boost tourism for 2024. The government plans to revamp and expand existing schemes as well as introduce new components to give the industry an extra boost. Cruise tourism, women-only cruises, women safety, health and rural holidays will be an integral part of the trajectory for 2024. Madhya Pradesh Tourism recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and the Government of Gujarat to promote cruise tourism in Madhya Pradesh. Under the MoU, two floating pontoons have been sent from Kolkata to Kukshi.
In an exclusive interview with Bisbuzz, Ms. Bidisha Mukherjee IAS, Deputy Director (AMD) Tourism, Madhya Pradesh said that innovations are being made to boost tourism in the state and as part of this, cruise tourism has been launched. Cruise tourism not only gives a new lease of life to tourism but also provides tourists an opportunity to enjoy the local culture, traditions, lifestyle and cuisine. It offers an adventurous yet comfortable journey amidst the picturesque scenery of River Narmada.
Pontoons, floating platforms installed on jetties or shores, will be installed along the ghats. They can support the weight of several people at the same time without sinking, allowing tourists to travel safely and comfortably on cruises.
Where does MP Tourism currently stand compared to other regions and how do you position it?
Madhya Pradesh is rightly called the heart of “Incredible India” as its diverse and thrilling tourist destinations convey the quintessence of culture, spirituality, adventure, tribal tales, natural beauty, wildlife, spirituality and cuisine. The state has successfully witnessed a surge in tourism due to its multi-faceted and far-reaching initiatives. Introduction of various new tourist routes, adventure activities and improved air links has attracted travellers from other Indian states and abroad. To boost tourism, the Madhya Pradesh government has drawn up an innovative strategy for 2024. Cruise tourism, women-only carriages, women safety, wellness and rural holidays will be an integral part of the trajectory for 2024.
It seems like the tourism industry as a whole, and MP Tourism in particular, has weathered the pandemic shock. Hasn’t it?
After battling adverse conditions due to the pandemic, tourism in Madhya Pradesh has bounced back in 2023, thanks to the state government’s tireless efforts. Introduction of new circuits, festivals and setting up of tented cities in offbeat destinations offering rural experiences were some of the hallmarks of 2023. The maiden editions of Kuno and Chanderi festivals got off to a flying start while Mandu and Gandhi Sagar water festivals adopted novel ways to attract visitors, including sprawling ultra-luxurious tented cities built around these destinations. We are trying to link tourism with culture and wildlife and the feedback from tourists has been very encouraging.
You have mentioned cruise tourism as one of your focus areas, how is cruise tourism growing in India?
The Government of India has undertaken initiatives such as upgrading infrastructure, rationalising port charges, removing eviction fees, giving priority berthing to cruise ships and providing e-visa facilities to boost the cruise tourism industry in the country. India’s vast coastline with major ports that can accommodate large cruise ships is an advantage for the cruise industry. Madhya Pradesh Tourism has also made plans to promote cruise tourism in the state in a phased manner.
What is the Madhya Pradesh government doing to promote cruise tourism in the state?
Madhya Pradesh Tourism has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Government of Gujarat to promote cruise tourism in Madhya Pradesh. Under this MoU, two floating pontoons will be sent from Kolkata to Kukshi in Madhya Pradesh to be used as terminals for pontoon cruises. MP Cruise Tourism is an initiative of MPTB to promote tourism in the state.
Which locations/areas has the Madhya Pradesh government designated for promoting cruise tourism?
Innovations are being undertaken to boost tourism within the state. In this context, cruise tourism has been launched to attract more tourists and provide them with an experience they will never forget. The adventure and comfort of the journey will be amidst the picturesque landscape of the Narmada River. As for inter-state cruises, projects are being planned for 2024 and plans are underway to connect Rajghat Dam near Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh to Deoghar in Uttar Pradesh. Long distance intra-state cruises will also be a new attraction for 2024.
The cruises planned for next year within the state include from Maikal Resort in Bhargi near Jabalpur to Tindini in Mandla district, from Dharaj in Dewas to Sailani Tapu in eastern Omkareshwar and from Sanjit village to the tent village of Gandhisagar. The Tawa Madai cruise will be revamped with the addition of new experiences.
What facilities and amenities does MP Tourism offer to attract cruise tourists?
Cruise tourism plans are in the works for 2024. The main attraction will be an interstate cruise on River Narmada covering a distance of around 130 km from the Statue of Oneness at Omkareshwar to the Statue of Unity in Gujarat. A floating dock will be set up for the cruise. The multi-destination cruise will include rural experiences between the two destinations.
How many cruise tourists visited India last year and how has that number increased?
Cruise tourism in India recovered from the pandemic, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and registering a record high of 470,000 visitor arrivals in FY24. Domestic tourists accounted for nearly 80% of these visitors, up about 85% from 2019-20.
What is the expected number of cruise tourists in the next 5-10 years and what needs to be done to promote cruise tourism in India?
Cruise tourism is a tourism experience that is growing in popularity among different age groups. Travelers are keen on experiential tourism and the number of cruise travelers is expected to at least double in the coming years. Therefore, the Ministry of Tourism has identified infrastructure and circuit enabling, market development, skills development, ease of doing business, integrated tourism, investment promotion, institutional structure and governance as key strategies to promote cruise tourism.
Besides cruise tourism, what are your key areas of focus and focus?
Moves have already begun to link at least 10 unexplored destinations with mainstream tourism by 2024. The process of developing offbeat destinations will begin in 2023 and will take a stronger shape in 2024. The contours of rural tourism have been drawn during the pandemic times, but it will be broadened in 2024. The number of homestays will increase to more than 500 in 2024. MP Tourism will introduce new village living experiences that are innovative and in tune with rural life.
