In a significant move to enhance India’s maritime and fisheries infrastructure, the Department of Fisheries (DoF) has signed a Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) agreement with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations.

The initiative focuses on strengthening the blue port framework, which integrates technological innovation with environmental stewardship. The FAO-backed TCP on "strengthening of blue ports" aims to address key environmental, social, and economic challenges affecting the aquatic value chain. As part of the programme, two pilot ports— Vanakbara in Diu and Jakhau in Gujarat will receive strategic and operational tools to identify and develop investment projects.

Additionally, a capacity-building programme will engage public and private stakeholders to promote sustainable fishing practices. Abhilaksh Likhi, Secretary of DoF, emphasised the role of advanced technologies such as 5G, AI, and automation in enhancing efficiency. Under this framework, three pilot harbours— Vanakbara, Karaikal, and Jakhau, are being developed with Rs 369.8 crore investment.