India & Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Join Hands to Build World-Class Blue Ports: First Webinar on Capacity-Building Series Held

The Department of Fisheries (DoF), under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, has partnered with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN) to strengthen Blue Port infrastructure in India through a Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP). As part of this initiative, the DoF hosted the first of three webinars on Foundations of a Blue Port: Generating Value in Fishing Ports, featuring participation from FAO officials and stakeholders across coastal States, maritime boards, and major port authorities. Secretary, DoF, Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, highlighted that fishing ports are not merely physical assets but strategic gateways to economic prosperity, ecological sustainability, and social inclusion. He outlined the integration of 5G, artificial intelligence, automation, and digital platforms to enhance efficiency and service delivery. He welcomed FAO’s support in piloting upgrades at Vanakbara (Diu) and Jakhau (Gujarat). Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), three Smart and Integrated Fishing Harbours, Vanakbara, Karaikal (Puducherry), and Jakhau, are being developed with an investment of Rs. 369 crore (US$ 30.5 million).
The Blue Ports framework aims to combine technological innovation with environmental stewardship to modernise India’s post-harvest fisheries infrastructure. FAO experts shared global best practices, including a case study on Spain’s Port of Vigo, underscoring sustainable and inclusive operations that reduce environmental impact and generate socio-economic benefits. The initiative emphasises climate resilience, traceability, and energy transition in port operations, supported by eco-friendly features such as rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient lighting, electric-powered equipment, and advanced waste management systems. By fostering collaboration between public and private stakeholders, the programme seeks to boost exports, create employment, and ensure sustainable growth in the fisheries sector, reinforcing India’s commitment to food and nutritional security.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.