India and FAO Collaborate to Develop World-Class Blue Ports

What Does It Involve?

A joint effort within FAO’s TCP aims to transform fishing ports into smart, sustainable, and inclusive Blue Ports, promoting economic development while safeguarding ecological health.

Entities Participating:

Department of Fisheries (DoF), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying (MoFAHD), Government of India.

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the UN.

Objective:

Upgrade fishing port facilities, enhance post-harvest productivity, guarantee traceability, and support climate-resilient, technology-enhanced fisheries supply chains.

Improve food and nutrition stability, boost export competitiveness, and support coastal communities.

Characteristics of Blue Ports:

Integration of Smart Technology: IoT devices, artificial intelligence, 5G networks, automation, satellite comms, real-time data analysis.

Sustainable Infrastructure: Rainwater collection, energy-saving lighting, electric appliances, efficient waste management, and sewage processing systems.

Climate Adaptation: Pollution management, waste removal systems, energy shift in port activities.

Concerning the Blue Port Framework:

What Is It?

A primary program of the Department of Fisheries (DoF) within the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.

Assisted through the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and endorsed by the FAO’s Technical Cooperation Programme.

Characteristics:

Technological Incorporation: IoT gadgets, sensor frameworks, satellite connections, data analysis for immediate oversight.

Sustainable Design: Collection of rainwater, energy-saving lighting, electric appliances, waste management, and sewage treatment systems.

Operational Efficiency: Digital solutions for port management, tracking, and quicker fish processing.

Social Integration: Secure work environments, infrastructure supportive of women, involvement of stakeholders.

Pilot Harbours: Diu's Vanakbara, Gujarat's Jakhau, and Puducherry's Karaikal, with an investment of ₹369.8 crore.

Importance:

Enhances Blue Economy: Fortifies the fisheries sector, increases exports, and raises incomes for fishers.

Advances PMMSY Objectives: Corresponds with Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana for contemporary harbor facilities.

Environmental Conservation: Decreases ocean pollution and promotes responsible fishing methods.