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Cordelia Cruises commends PM Modi’s vision for Tamil Nadu’s development
Mumbai: Cordelia Cruises, a premium cruise line, commends the significant strides made in Tamil Nadu’s infrastructure and maritime sector, as highlighted by PM Narendra Modi during the inauguration ceremony of various developmental projects.
Under the visionary leadership of the PM and the unwavering support of the union minister of ports, shipping & waterways, and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal, Cordelia Cruises is set to enhance India’s position on the global cruising map. Minister Sonowal’s strategic vision for cruise tourism has paved the way for monumental growth in the sector, emphasizing infrastructure upgrades, fee rationalisation, and improved passenger facilities. Cordelia Cruises is proud to be the pioneer of this transformative journey, further catalyzing Tamil Nadu’s progress with its expansion plans in cruise tourism.
Since 2021, Cordelia Cruises has welcomed 450,000 guests and successfully operated sailings from Mumbai, Kochi, and Goa to Lakshadweep, Chennai to Visakhapatnam, and Chennai to Sri Lanka. This year, the company is set to introduce Puducherry into its list of domestic destinations from Chennai, responding to the high demand for this route. Cordelia Cruises is committed to providing its guests with memorable experiences, showcasing the stunning coastal scenery of Tamil Nadu and beyond.
“At Cordelia Cruises, we are enthused to witness the significant progress and strategic vision PM Modi has unveiled for Tamil Nadu’s development. Our heartfelt appreciation goes to the Centre government and the ministry of ports, shipping & Waterways for their proactive efforts in advancing cruise tourism in India. We are committed to contributing to the realization of PM Modi’s Vision 2047 for waterways and cruise tourism. Dedicated to offering exceptional value to our passengers, creating job opportunities, and promoting sustainable tourism practices, we aim to propel India towards becoming a leading cruise destination by 2047.” Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd, Cordelia Cruises president and CEO Jurgen Bailom.
The launch of the first international cruise to Sri Lanka from Chennai last year and adding domestic cruises again this year marks a new era for the industry, showcasing Tamil Nadu’s potential as a burgeoning cruise destination. Cordelia Cruises is confident that its initiatives will not only bolster tourism but also create significant economic opportunities for the region.
Cordelia Cruises expresses gratitude for the support and proactive initiatives of the Tamil Nadu government, which have paved the way for its expansion and success. The company remains dedicated to providing unparalleled experiences to its guests while contributing to the socio-economic development of Tamil Nadu.
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Kotak Mahindra Bank appoints Ramesh Iyer to board
Veteran financier replaces Ashok Gulati, who retires in March
MUMBAI: Kotak Mahindra Bank has announced a change to its board of directors, with independent director Ashok Gulati set to retire at the end of his term on 5 March.
The company said it has appointed Ramesh Ganesh Iyer as an additional and independent director for a four-year term, effective 17 February, subject to shareholder approval.
Iyer brings more than four decades of experience in financial services. He spent much of his career at Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services, where he served as vice chairman and managing director before taking on the role of president for the financial services sector and member of the group executive board at Mahindra & Mahindra. He retired from the group in April 2024.
During his tenure, Iyer was instrumental in expanding rural and inclusive finance initiatives, scaling the company’s assets and customer base. He also led the creation of subsidiaries in rural housing finance, insurance broking and asset management, and oversaw international joint ventures.
Iyer holds a commerce degree and a doctorate of letters, and currently serves on the boards of several listed and unlisted companies.
The board meeting approving the changes was held in Mumbai on February 17 between 6.30 pm and 6.50 pm.







