India & FAO Launch Blue Ports for Smart Fisheries

India has taken a transformative step towards modernising its fisheries infrastructure by launching a strategic partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) under its Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP). On 18 September 2025, the Department of Fisheries (DoF) held the first webinar under this initiative, which aims to develop world-class Blue Ports integrating smart technologies and sustainable practices.

With an investment of ₹369.80 crores, three Smart and Integrated Fishing Harbours are being developed in Gujarat, Daman & Diu, and Puducherry, aligning with the government’s larger vision of ensuring food security, economic inclusion, and climate-resilient infrastructure for the fisheries sector.

What Are Blue Ports?

The Blue Ports framework promotes smart, eco-friendly, and inclusive fishing harbours that serve as gateways to both marine economy and ecological preservation. These ports aim to,

• Enhance post-harvest infrastructure
• Integrate technology-driven port operations
• Support socially inclusive and climate-resilient practices
• Enable traceability and energy-efficient operations

The idea is to transform traditional fishing ports into smart infrastructure hubs, supporting India’s aspirations in the Blue Economy—an economic model focused on sustainable use of ocean resources.

Role of Flagship Schemes

The ports are supported under PMMSY (Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana) and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), both aimed at empowering the fisheries sector and boosting exports.

Smart Harbours Underway: ₹369.80 Crore Investment

Three pilot harbours have been approved for development under the Blue Ports initiative,

• Vanakbara (Diu)
• Jakhau (Gujarat)
• Karaikal (Puducherry)

FAO’s Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP)

The FAO TCP agreement with India aims to,

• Build technical capacities of Indian fishing ports
• Provide strategic tools for identifying investment projects
• Assist in climate adaptation, eco-efficiency, and social inclusion

Two pilot sites—Vanakbara and Jakhau—are being specifically supported under this programme, with a detailed capacity-building component for government and private stakeholders.

Key Facts to Remember

• Agreement signed: Between 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 and FIDF