Major Developments in India’s Inland Waterways Sector

The Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) held its second meeting in January 2025, focusing on enhancing India’s inland waterways. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced investments and initiatives aimed at boosting the infrastructure and operational capabilities of national waterways. The IWDC aims to promote cooperative federalism, ensuring both central and state governments collaborate on inland development projects.

Investment and Infrastructure Development

The IWDC revealed plans to invest over ₹50,000 crore in the next five years. This includes ₹23,000 crore earmarked specifically for new national waterways development and green shipping initiatives. The projects span 21 states and aim to improve the transport network along rivers. The introduction of 1,000 green vessels is part of this initiative to promote sustainable shipping practices.

Riverine Community Development Scheme

A new policy initiative, the Riverine Community Development Scheme, was introduced to enhance the socio-economic well-being of communities living along national waterways. This scheme focuses on infrastructure development, trade promotion, and skill training to improve the quality of life for these communities.

National River Traffic and Navigation System

The IWDC launched the National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS) to ensure safe and efficient movement of vessels. This system aims to streamline operations and improve safety protocols for inland water transport.

Tourism and Economic Growth

Efforts to boost river cruise tourism are underway, with the ‘Cruise Bharat Mission’ aiming to establish 100 river cruise terminals and 10 sea cruise terminals. This initiative is expected to attract tourists and enhance local economies, particularly in areas with cultural heritage.

Regional Development Initiatives

In Assam, a Regional Centre of Excellence will be established to train personnel for the inland water transport sector. Floating jetties and ship repair facilities are also planned in various states, including Andhra Pradesh and Goa, to facilitate better connectivity and operational efficiency.

Legislative Reforms

Recent legislative changes, including the National Waterways Act 2016 and the Inland Vessels Act 2021, have streamlined the movement of vessels. These reforms have led to increase in cargo traffic on national waterways, with a growth rate of over 22% annually.

Future Prospects

The IWDC’s initiatives are expected to unlock the economic potential of inland waterways, transforming them into viable transportation routes. The focus on cooperative federalism will enhance coordination between state and central governments, ensuring effective implementation of projects.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically discuss the impact of the Riverine Community Development Scheme on local economies along national waterways.
2. Examine the role of the National River Traffic and Navigation System in enhancing the safety of inland water transport.
3. What are the legislative reforms introduced in the inland waterways sector? Analyze their effects on cargo traffic.
4. Estimate the potential benefits of the Cruise Bharat Mission on India’s tourism sector and local economies.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically discuss the impact of the Riverine Community Development Scheme on local economies along national waterways.

1. The scheme aims to improve socio-economic conditions of communities living along waterways.
2. Infrastructure development will facilitate better access to markets and services.
3. Promotion of trade and tourism can enhance local income and job opportunities.
4. Skill training initiatives will empower local populations, encouraging entrepreneurship.
5. Upgrading traditional knowledge of river ecosystems can lead to sustainable practices.

2. Examine the role of the National River Traffic and Navigation System in enhancing the safety of inland water transport.

1. The system provides real-time data for vessel movement, improving navigation safety.
2. It establishes standardized protocols for vessel operations and emergency responses.
3. Enhances coordination among various stakeholders in the inland waterways sector.
4. Promotes compliance with safety regulations, reducing accidents and mishaps.
5. Facilitates better monitoring of cargo and passenger vessels for security purposes.

3. What are the legislative reforms introduced in the inland waterways sector? Analyze their effects on cargo traffic.

1. The National Waterways Act 2016 expanded the definition and management of national waterways.
2. The Inland Vessels Act 2021 streamlined registration and regulation for vessels.
3. These reforms have led to increase in operational national waterways.
4. Cargo traffic has grown from 18 million tonnes to 133 million tonnes in a decade.
5. Legislative changes have encouraged private investments and enhanced operational efficiency.

4. Estimate the potential benefits of the Cruise Bharat Mission on India’s tourism sector and local economies.

1. The mission aims to establish 100 river cruise terminals, boosting tourism infrastructure.
2. It is expected to attract both domestic and international tourists, increasing revenue.
3. River cruise tourism can create jobs in hospitality, transport, and local businesses.
4. Enhancing cultural heritage tourism can promote local arts and crafts.
5. Improved connectivity through cruises can facilitate regional economic development.