The blue economy in India covers fisheries, ports, tourism, and marine technology, driving growth, jobs, and sustainable coastal development nationwide. Here’s how –
Fisheries and aquaculture
The fishing industry is a cornerstone of India’s blue economy. India recorded fish production of 175.45 lakh tonnes in FY 2022–23, and seafood exports reached ₹60,523.89 crore in FY 2023–24. At the primary level, the fisheries sector provides livelihoods to more than 2.8 crore fishers and fish farmers, with many more engaged along the value chain. Inland fish production reached about 131.13 lakh tonnes in 2022–23; aquaculture (a major component of inland production) has been a major driver.
This boom is supported by government schemes that build cold storage, modern boats, and processing units. Modernizing fleets and gears is a priority – Niti Aayog’s report stresses upgrading fishing boats and better market linkages to tap deep-sea resources. All this boosts income while aiming for sustainable practices (like marine sanctuaries, sustainable fisheries and regulated catch).
Ports, shipping and trade
India relies heavily on maritime trade. Nearly 95% of all cargo by volume moves through our seaports. Major ports on the Arabian Sea (West Coast) and Bay of Bengal (East Coast) handle containers, oil, minerals and more. Under Sagarmala project, India identified 839 projects to enhance port connectivity, port-led industrialization and waterways.
Improving these ports not only reduces logistics costs but also strengthens India’s standing as a global maritime hub. Marine logistics (shipbuilding, port services) create jobs in coastal states, strengthening the model of blue economy in India. This sector keeps essential goods flowing, from oil imports to exporting farm and factory products.
Coastal tourism and conservation
Coastlines and islands are also economic assets. States like Goa, Kerala, and Gujarat attract tourists to beaches, mangroves, and heritage sites. Boating, scuba diving, and ecotourism in the Sundarbans or Andaman Islands bring income to local communities. The government is encouraging sustainable coastal tourism. For example, funding coral reefs and mangrove conservation through the National Coastal Mission.
Healthy mangroves not only protect shores from storms but also sequester carbon (blue carbon). Keeping beaches clean under campaigns like ‘Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar’ also makes tourist spots more attractive. In all, tourism diversifies the blue economy beyond traditional industries.
Marine energy and technology
India’s blue economy strategy includes tapping ocean energy and tech. Research institutes like NIOT are exploring offshore wind projects in India, wave energy and Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) to power coastal areas. For example, studies are underway to design an OTEC-driven desalination plant. These projects are still in the early stage, helping the nation become one of the emerging blue economy sectors in the world.
On the tech side, India is building a deep-sea exploration submarine (Samudrayaan project) to map the seafloor and harvest minerals responsibly. Such technology also contributes to environmental science. E.g., subs provide data on ocean life and climate. The Deep Ocean Mission was approved with an estimated outlay of ₹4,077 crore (over five years) to support research, technology development and exploration of deep-sea resources and biodiversity.
