Transforming Fisheries Infrastructure
India Launches Blue Ports for Smart Fisheries: India has partnered with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) under its Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) to modernize fisheries infrastructure. On 18 September 2025, the Department of Fisheries (DoF) conducted the first webinar introducing the Blue Ports initiative. The project focuses on developing world-class fishing harbours that integrate smart technologies and sustainable practices.
Static GK fact: India’s fisheries sector contributes over 1% to the country’s GDP and employs around 14 million people.
Investment and Locations
A total of ₹369.80 crores has been allocated for three Smart and Integrated Fishing Harbours. The pilot projects are underway at:
- Vanakbara (Diu)
- Jakhau (Gujarat)
- Karaikal (Puducherry)
These investments aim to align with India’s vision for food security, economic inclusion, and climate-resilient fisheries infrastructure.
What Are Blue Ports
The Blue Ports framework promotes eco-friendly, inclusive, and technology-driven fishing harbours. Key objectives include:
- Enhancing post-harvest infrastructure
- Integrating AI, 5G, and IoT for port operations
- Supporting socially inclusive and climate-resilient practices
- Enabling traceability and energy-efficient management
This initiative is designed to transform traditional ports into smart infrastructure hubs, boosting India’s Blue Economy by leveraging sustainable ocean resource management.
Static GK Tip: India has the 7th longest coastline in the world, spanning over 7,500 km, making maritime development critical for the economy.
Role of Flagship Schemes
The Blue Ports initiative is supported under PMMSY (Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana) and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF). These schemes empower the fisheries sector, improve export potential, and strengthen climate adaptation measures.
FAO Technical Cooperation Programme
The FAO TCP agreement with India focuses on:
- Building technical capacities for port management
- Providing strategic tools for investment identification
- Assisting in eco-efficiency and social inclusion
Vanakbara and Jakhau harbours are specifically supported, with a comprehensive capacity-building program for both government and private stakeholders.
Technology Integration
The initiative emphasizes AI, 5G, IoT, and digital platforms to improve operational efficiency, traceability, and sustainable practices. Energy-efficient solutions and climate-resilient designs are central to these smart harbours.
Static GK fact: The Indian Ocean hosts 32% of global maritime trade, highlighting the strategic importance of modern ports.
Conclusion
The Blue Ports initiative represents a transformative step in India’s fisheries sector, combining technology, sustainability, and inclusivity to strengthen the Blue Economy and provide global-standard fishing infrastructure.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India Launches Blue Ports for Smart Fisheries:
| Topic | India Launches Blue Ports for Smart Fisheries |
| Agreement | India’s Department of Fisheries and FAO under TCP |
| Investment | ₹369.80 crores for 3 smart harbours |
| Pilot Harbours | Vanakbara (Diu), Jakhau (Gujarat), Karaikal (Puducherry) |
| Technology Integration | AI, 5G, IoT, digital platforms |
| Supporting Schemes | PMMSY, FIDF |
| Objectives | Smart, eco-friendly, inclusive, climate-resilient ports |
| Launch Date | 18 September 2025 |
