Shipping Minister Sonowal launches ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ to boost tourism

01 Oct 2024 CW Team

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, has unveiled the ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ to significantly enhance India’s cruise tourism industry. The initiative aims to double the cruise passenger traffic from Mumbai Port by 2029. According to an official statement, the mission is expected to attract over 1.5 million river cruise passengers, leveraging India’s more than 5,000 kilometers of operational waterways.

Speaking at the launch, Sonowal emphasised that the ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ marks a pivotal step in revitalising India’s cruise sector. “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is focused on unlocking the potential of India’s Blue Economy. Despite its vast coastline, cruise tourism in India has remained largely untapped. This mission aims to transform the maritime landscape by focusing on infrastructure development, elevating the cruise experience for tourists, and ensuring sustainable use of resources,” he stated.

The mission, structured in three phases, will develop world-class facilities, boost cruise tourism, and contribute to the growth of maritime trade, ultimately positioning India as a leading player in global cruise tourism. (ET)

Building Material

09 Dec 2025

Cement Makers Set for ~250 bps Margin Boost on Strong Realisations

Cement manufacturers are expected to record a 250–300 basis points (bps) expansion in operating margins this fiscal, supported by improved realisations driven by higher volumes, greater premiumisation and broadly stable input costs. Industry volume is projected to grow 6.5–7.5 per cent this fiscal, up from 5 per cent in the previous year. While the first half saw a moderate 5 per cent on-year rise—recovering from flat demand a year earlier—the second half is likely to strengthen with 8–9 per cent growth backed by pent-up demand and better liquidity.Pan-India cement prices are expecte..

Zen Technologies Bags Rs 1.20 Bn MoD Contract for Combat Training Node

Zen Technologies has secured a Rs 1.20 billion contract from the Ministry of Defence to establish India’s first Combat Training Node (CTN) at the Infantry School in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. The institution, regarded as the alma mater of the country’s infantry forces, will host this state-of-the-art training ecosystem designed to enhance operational preparedness through advanced simulation technologies.The CTN will integrate more than 60 training simulators and solutions, aimed at modernising and standardising combat training. The initiative aligns with India’s broader goal of strengthening ..

Shree Cement Rolls Out Bangur Marble Cement in Odisha Market

Shree Cement has expanded its premium portfolio in eastern India with the launch of Bangur Marble Cement in Odisha under its master brand, Bangur Cement. The product, a premium PSC cement, is engineered for superior brightness, enhanced strength and strong crack resistance—qualities that make it particularly suitable for exposed concrete structures and large, visually striking designs. Its composition also makes it well suited to the climatic conditions of coastal Odisha, offering durable performance in challenging environments.The company plans to make the cement available through more than..