Jan 28: NEW DELHI: In a major boost to the fisheries sector and coastal infrastructure, the Government of India has approved a ₹200-crore project to develop a smart and integrated fishing harbour at Mayabunder in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The project will be fully funded by the Central Government under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
The upcoming harbour is designed to provide safe and modern facilities for around 430 fishing vessels and is expected to handle nearly 10,000 tonnes of fish annually. Once operational, it will significantly enhance the fisheries ecosystem in the islands by improving fish handling, storage and transportation infrastructure.
According to officials, the project will focus on promoting sustainable fishing practices while ensuring better safety and operational efficiency for fishermen. The harbour will be equipped with modern amenities, including digital tracking systems, improved landing and auction facilities, cold storage units and hygienic fish handling infrastructure.
The initiative is also expected to generate substantial employment opportunities for local communities, both directly and indirectly. By strengthening the fisheries value chain, the project aims to increase fishers’ incomes and improve livelihood security in the region.
The government said the Mayabunder fishing harbour will play a crucial role in unlocking the vast and largely untapped fisheries potential of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. With rich marine biodiversity and a strategic location, the islands are considered a key contributor to India’s long-term blue economy vision.
The project also aligns with India’s broader national goal of achieving ₹1 lakh crore in seafood exports by 2030–31. By enhancing infrastructure and ensuring quality standards, the harbour will support higher-value exports and greater participation of Indian seafood products in global markets.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, the Centre has been focusing on modernising fisheries infrastructure, encouraging sustainable practices and strengthening coastal economies across the country. The approval of the Mayabunder harbour reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, regional development and the empowerment of fishing communities.
Once completed, the smart fishing harbour is expected to emerge as a key hub for fisheries development in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, contributing to economic growth, food security and export competitiveness.
