Context: Recently, the Union Minister laid the foundation stone for the Modernisation of Paradip Fishing Harbour.

Paradip Fishing Harbour Set for Transformation Under PMMSY Scheme

• Central Government has approved Modernisation and Upgradation of Paradip Fishing Harbour with 100% central financial assistance under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
• Implementation: This fishing harbour project is implemented by Paradip Port Authority with a completion period of 18 months. 

About Paradip Port 

• It is a natural, deep-water port located on the confluence of Mahanadi and the Bay of Bengal in Jagatsinghpur District, Odisha. 
• Importance: It is  one of the Major Ports and an important fishing harbor in Odisha. 
• Advantage: Paradip Port enjoys the advantages of soft underwater soil so that it can be deepened to any depth depending upon the need.
• Modernisation: Modernisation will improve the Hygiene, and aesthetics and upgrade the essential infrastructure facilities, mechanizing the fish handling process. 

Government Initiatives for Development of Port Infrastructure in India 

• Sagarmala Project:

• • It promotes port-led development in the country through harnessing India’s coastline, navigable waterways, and strategic location on key international maritime trade routes. 

• Project UNNATI:

  • It will benchmark the operational and financial performance of the 12 major ports with selected Indian private ports and best-in-class international ports for identifying improvement areas.

• Passage of Major Port Authorities Act 202:

  • The Act aims to decentralize decision-making and reinforce excellence in major port governance.

• SAROD-Ports: 

• • The initiative aims to assist in the settlement of disputes through arbitrations in the maritime sector, including ports and shipping

Also Read: Indian Ports Hold The Key To Growth & Employment

Additional Reading: Major Ports in India

News Source: PIB