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Context

• After nearly four decades, a passenger ferry service has been reinstated to reconnect India and Sri Lanka.
• This symbolizes a significant diplomatic and economic milestone.

Route

• The service, operated by the government-owned Shipping Corporation of India, runs between Nagapattinam in India and Kankesanthurai in Jaffna, northern Sri Lanka.

Capability

• The high-speed craft, Cheriyapani, can carry up to 150 passengers and will make the 60-nautical-mile journey in three to four hours.

Significance

• The service is expected to strengthen ties between the two countries and boost trade and tourism.
• It is aligned with the 'neighbour-first' policy, which will fortify India-Sri Lanka ties.
• It will lead to enhanced connectivity that would stimulate trade and tourism between the two countries, especially given Nagapattinam's array of tourist destinations.

Note: Plans are also being considered for a similar service between Rameswaram and Talaimannar.

READ ABOUT INDIA SRI LANKA RELATIONS: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/india-sri-lanka-ties-11

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