Dr. Abhilaksh Likhi, Union Secretary chaired a meeting on 27^th December, 2024 at the Central Institute of Coastal Engineering for Fishery (CICEF), Bangalore, to review the progress of Smart Fishing Harbour components in Jakhau in the State of Gujarat, Karaikal in UT of Puducherry and Vanakbara in UT of Daman, DNH and Institute's activities.

Shri Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary to Government of India, Mr. Konda Reddy Chavva, FAO representative to India and Senior Officers of the Department of Fisheries, Maritime States joined the meeting through virtual mode. The meeting, chaired by the Union Secretary, highlighted the strategic importance of modernizing India's fishery infrastructure to enhance sustainability, productivity, and economic viability.

A key focus of the discussion was the development of Smart and Integrated Fishing Harbours, which aim to leverage advanced technology, eco-friendly practices, and efficient management systems to improve operational efficiency and benefit the fishing community.

Shri Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary stressed the importance of adopting global best practices to position India as a leader in sustainable fisheries and emphasized the need for smart fishing harbours to incorporate:

1. Digital Infrastructure: Use of real-time data monitoring, automated fish handling systems, and digital marketplaces to streamline harbor operations.
2. Sustainability Measures: Adoption of green energy solutions, waste management systems, and eco-friendly construction techniques to minimize environmental impact.
3. Integrated Facilities: Provision of cold storage, ice plants, quality control labs, and modern auction platforms to enhance the value chain.
4. Community Development: Focus on training and capacity building for fishermen, ensuring equitable growth and employment opportunities.

During the meeting, it was informed that the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying has approved project proposals for construction/ modernization/ maintenance of 58 FHs and FLCs under Pradhan Mantri Matysa Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) at a total project cost of Rs 3,184.28 crore including 3 Smart and integrated fishing harbours viz., Vanakbara in Daman & Diu, Karaikal in Puducherry and Jakhau in Gujarat.

The Joint Secretary informed that the Department of Fisheries has signed an agreement for assistance through FAO’s Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) for the strengthening of Blue Ports in India.

Mr. Konda Reddy Chavva, FAO representative to India present during the hybrid meeting informed that the three pilot fishing ports, specifically Vanakbara,  Karaikal and Jakhau would benefit from this TCP that will provide them with specific strategic and operational tools to identify and formulate investments projects, whose implementation would address main challenges.

The officers of Government of Gujarat, UT of Puducherry and UT of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu made a detailed presentation on the progress of development of smart and integrated fishing harbour sanctioned by the Union Government at Jakhau, Karaikal and Vanakbara respectively. These three projects aim to become a model for sustainable and efficient operations.

The Secretary also stressed the need for robust coordination between central and state authorities to address any bottlenecks and expedite the construction process. Shri. N. Venkatesh Prasad, Director, CICEF presented a comprehensive overview of its ongoing projects, including site selection, pre-feasibility studies, engineering investigations, and preparation of Techno-Economic Feasibility Reports (TEFRs) for fishery harbours and fish landing centres.

The Union Secretary urged the Institute to accelerate its endeavours in collaboration with state governments, Union Territories, and other stakeholders. CICEF was tasked with developing innovative models that can be replicated across coastal states. The meeting concluded with a commitment to transform India's fishery sector through smart infrastructure and sustainable practices, thereby enhancing livelihoods and boosting the nation’s economy.

 

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