Gujarat has unveiled a major step toward modern coastal development with the rollout of Smart Blue Harbours designed to strengthen the state’s fisheries sector and advance India’s Blue Economy. These upgraded harbours are being positioned as strategic hubs that support economic growth, ecological resilience, and community welfare.

Fishing Harbours: Key Engines for Economic and Social Progress

According to the Gujarat government, fishing harbours today are more than traditional docking points — they serve as essential gateways for local livelihoods, national food security, and India’s global seafood competitiveness.
Gujarat’s leadership in developing eco-friendly, inclusive, and high-tech Blue Harbours is expected to significantly uplift the coastal economy.

India Partners With FAO to Build World-Class Blue Harbours

The Government of India has taken a major step toward improving coastal infrastructure through a new partnership between:

• Department of Fisheries (DoF)

• Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying (MoFAHD)

• Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations

A new Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) will support the creation of international-standard Blue Harbours at:

• Jakhau (Gujarat)

• Vanakbara (Diu)

• Karaikal (Puducherry)

These projects will act as national models for smart, sustainable, and inclusive fisheries development.

Major Investment Under PMMSY for Smart Fishing Infrastructure

Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the central government has launched the development of Smart and Integrated Fishing Infrastructure, supported by a major investment of ₹452.32 crore.
This initiative aims to modernize harbours, improve safety, support fishermen, and strengthen India’s seafood value chain.

Jakhau Harbour: A Strategic Fisheries Hub for Gujarat

Located in Kutch district, Jakhau Harbour is one of Gujarat’s largest and most important fishing centres. Managed by the Commissioner of Fisheries (COF), it supports:

• Thousands of fishermen

• Vessel anchoring

• Fish landing operations

• Post-harvest activities

• Essential facilities such as storage, jetties, and repair zones

Recently included in the Blue Revolution initiative, Jakhau is central to Gujarat’s coastal economy and long-term blue growth mission.

Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference 2026 to Highlight Coastal Future

The upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) will be held in Rajkot in the second week of January 2026.
The second edition of VGRC will highlight the Kutch and Saurashtra regions, known for:

• Rich fisheries resources

• Strategically important fishing harbours

• Strong coastal infrastructure

• Key roles in India’s marine value chain and blue-economy practices

The conference will reaffirm Gujarat’s commitment to sustainable coastal development and maritime progress.