Even people from Singapore can avail this. Most destinations in India are four-five hours away from Singapore by air,' he added.

And both the countries will do joint marketing to promote this plan.

Indian Tourism Minister Kumari Selja said both the countries will cooperate further so that cruise tourism can take off in a big way and other products like wellness and rural tourism can also attract more visitors.

'Also, now that India is allowing 100 percent foreign direct investment (FDI) in hotel and hospitality and convention centres, we are hoping that Singapore will invest in India,' Selja said.

Kheong added: 'We have suggested that India, at the government level, should put together a clear dossier of what the opportunities here are, what is the five-year-plan and about the infrastructure. This will help the Singapore business community.

'Also, the business communities of both the countries should work together to make the entire plan work.'