India-FAO Partnership Advances Blue Port Vision for Sustainable Fisheries Growth

The Department of Fisheries (DoF), under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAHD), has taken a significant step in advancing India’s maritime and fisheries infrastructure by signing a Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) agreement with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The collaboration aims to strengthen Blue Port infrastructure in India, integrating sustainability, innovation, and global best practices into the nation’s fisheries ecosystem.

As part of this initiative, the DoF hosted the first webinar in a three-part series under the FAO’s TCP programme. The session, titled “Foundations of a Blue Port: Generating Value in Fishing Ports”, was addressed by Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary, Department of Fisheries, and featured participation from Mr. Takayuki Hagiwara, FAO Representative in India, alongside senior officials, international experts, and key stakeholders.

Ports as Gateways to Prosperity and Sustainability

In his keynote address, Dr. Likhi stressed that fishing ports must be viewed beyond their traditional role as physical infrastructure. Instead, they represent strategic gateways to economic growth, ecological balance, and social inclusion. He underlined the government’s vision to develop ecologically healthy, economically viable, and socially inclusive fisheries systems, which are vital for bolstering national food and nutritional security.

Highlighting the role of technology integration, Dr. Likhi spoke about the transformative potential of 5G networks, artificial intelligence, automation, and digital platforms in streamlining port operations, improving traceability, and boosting efficiency. He also noted the importance of resilience against climate change, energy transition, and inclusive governance, calling for collaborative efforts from both public and private stakeholders.

Flagship Schemes Driving Modernization

The Secretary emphasized the pivotal role of flagship initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) in modernizing port infrastructure and empowering stakeholders. Under PMMSY, three Smart and Integrated Fishing Harbours are currently under development in Gujarat, Daman & Diu, and Puducherry, with an investment of ₹369.80 crores.

In collaboration with FAO, strategic upgrades are being piloted at Vanakbara (Diu) and Jakhau (Gujarat) ports, which are set to serve as demonstration models for Blue Port transformation.

Insights from Global Experiences

The webinar also featured expert presentations by FAO officials Mr. Jose Estors, Ms. Yolanda Molares, and Ms. Lucia Lopez de Aragon, who elaborated on the Blue Ports concept. They presented a roadmap for transitioning fishing ports toward sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, emphasizing reduced environmental impact, improved efficiency, and enhanced socio-economic outcomes.

A case study on the Port of Vigo in Spain showcased the benefits of participatory and sustainable port development, demonstrating how a robust governance model, digital integration, and eco-friendly practices can deliver lasting economic and environmental gains.

Broad-Based Stakeholder Engagement

The event brought together senior officials from FAO Headquarters, representatives from the Port of Vigo (Spain), Maritime Boards, Major Port Authorities, state and union territory governments, fisheries cooperatives, and other industry stakeholders. This broad participation underscored the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in achieving the Blue Ports vision.

Towards Sustainable and Competitive Fisheries

The deliberations during the webinar reaffirmed India’s commitment to building technology-driven, climate-resilient, and inclusive fishing ports. The ongoing collaboration with FAO is expected to accelerate India’s transition toward globally competitive fisheries infrastructure, strengthening livelihoods of fishing communities, promoting exports, and consolidating India’s position as a responsible maritime nation.

The upcoming two webinars and physical workshops planned under the TCP agreement will further deepen knowledge exchange, refine strategies, and support the development of a comprehensive blueprint for Blue Port infrastructure in India.