Source: TW
Context: The Department of Fisheries and Agence Française de Développement (AFD) held a Technical Dialogue on Eco-Fishing Ports in New Delhi to promote sustainable, smart, and inclusive fishing harbour infrastructure under India’s Blue Economy framework.
About Eco-Fishing Ports:
- Launched by: Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
- Objective: To develop environmentally sustainable and economically viable fishing harbours with minimal ecological footprint.
- Key Features:
- Green Design Elements: Integration of eco-friendly breakwaters, STPs, rainwater harvesting, and renewable energy (solar/wind).
- Smart Infrastructure: Use of IoT, sensor networks, and predictive modelling for real-time monitoring and harbour operations.
- Social Inclusiveness: Encourages community participation, women empowerment, and local governance via co-management societies.
- Post-Harvest Efficiency: Focus on safe fish handling, cold storage, and hygienic practices to improve seafood quality and exports.
- Climate Resilience: Incorporates marine debris removal, environmental standards, and climate-adaptive design for coastal sustainability.
About Blue Ports Initiative:
- Launched by: Government of India in partnership with FAO.
- Under: Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
- Objective: To establish model fishing harbours that integrate blue economy principles for sustainable marine growth.
- Key Features:
- Three Pilot Harbours: Vanakbara (Daman & Diu), Karaikal (Puducherry), and Jakhau (Gujarat).
- Smart Technologies: Use of AI, data analytics, and remote sensing for efficient port management.
- Eco-Infrastructure: Emphasis on energy-efficient lighting, electric equipment, composting, and waste recycling.
- Value Chain Enhancement: Improves fish landing, processing, storage, and market linkage to boost coastal livelihoods.
- International Collaboration: Aligns with FAO’s Blue Growth agenda to leverage global best practices in marine conservation.
