India and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have signed a Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) agreement to strengthen Blue Port infrastructure in India.

About Blue Port Initiative

• The Blue Ports Initiative seeks to transform marine and coastal areas into socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable zones through collaboration among all stakeholders.
• Fishing ports, as central hubs of the maritime industry, directly impact local communities and can be developed into strategic platforms for growth and value creation at local, national, and regional levels.

Blue Ports Framework in India

• Objective: Develop smart, sustainable, and inclusive fishing harbours.
• Nodal Ministry: Department of Fisheries (DoF) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
• Features:
  • Technology Integration: Adoption of 5G, AI, automation, IoT, digital platforms, and satellite communication for efficient harbour operations.
  • Eco-friendly Infrastructure: Rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient lighting, sewage treatment, marine debris clean-up.
  • Climate Resilience: Ensures sustainable practices and strengthens seafood export competitiveness.
• Flagship Support: Backed by Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF).
• Pilot Projects:
  • Vanakbara (Diu) and Jakhau (Gujarat) under FAO’s TCP support.
  • Three Smart and Integrated Fishing Harbours approved (Vanakbara–Diu, Karaikal–Puducherry, Jakhau–Gujarat) under PMMSY, with investment of ₹369.8 crore.
• Case Study: Port of Vigo (Spain) – model for sustainability and innovation.

Significance for India

• Fisheries Modernization: Strengthens post-harvest infrastructure, vital for food and nutritional security.
• Export Competitiveness: Enhances India’s role in the global seafood market.
• Livelihoods: Boosts incomes of fishing communities through efficiency and sustainability.
• Environmental Protection: Balances economic viability with ecological health.
• Global Best Practices: Collaboration with FAO ensures alignment with international sustainability norms.

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