Content :

1. Eco-Fishing Ports” in Focus: Department of Fisheries and AFD Hold Technical Dialogue in New Delhi
2. India Records USD 81.04 Billion FDI Inflow in FY 2024–25

“Eco-Fishing Ports” in Focus: Department of Fisheries and AFD Hold Technical Dialogue in New Delhi

Context and Objective

• A Technical Dialogue was held in New Delhi between Department of Fisheries (India) and Agence Française de Développement (AFD).
• Focus: Promoting “Eco-Fishing Ports”—harbours that reduce environmental impact while enhancing economic, social, and ecosystem outcomes.
• Aim: Align national efforts with sustainable, inclusive, and smart infrastructure development in fisheries.

Relevance : GS 3(Fishing ,Infrastructure )

India’s Marine and Fisheries Sector

• Coastline: ~11,099 km; Second-largest global fish producer (8% of world output).
• Seafood exports: Grew from ₹30,213 crore (2013–14) to ₹60,523.89 crore (2023–24).
• Markets: China, USA, EU, Japan; efforts underway to diversify and add value-added products.

Current Challenges

• Inadequate infrastructure, limited market access, and climate vulnerability.
• Need for modernization, better logistics, and green technologies.

Government Initiatives

• PMMSY Projects: ₹9,832.95 crore (USD 1.15 billion) for 117 Fishing Harbours (FHs) & Fish Landing Centres (FLCs).
• Smart and Integrated Fishing Harbours:
  • Locations: Vanakbara (Daman & Diu), Karaikal (Puducherry), Jakhau (Gujarat).
  • Features: IoT, sensor networks, renewable energy, STPs, rainwater harvesting.

Blue Ports Initiative (with FAO)

• Model for sustainable, smart, and green fishing harbours.
• Key features:
  • Eco-friendly infrastructure: solar/wind power, STPs, waste segregation.
  • Tech-driven management: remote sensing, data analytics, predictive modelling.
  • Emphasis on climate adaptation and community welfare.

Technical Dialogue – Key Themes

1. Concept and Infrastructure:
   1. Eco-Port design, sustainable architecture, global models (FAO’s Blue Port).
2. Community Dynamics:
   1. Role of stakeholders, co-management, private harbour models, export enhancements.
3. Environmental Sustainability:
   1. Green fishing vessels, hygiene, pollution control, marine debris management.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation:
   1. Indicators, cost-benefit analysis, maintenance post-construction.

Significance of the Dialogue

• Knowledge-sharing platform: International best practices, FAO/AFD expertise.
• Capacity building and collaboration: State-industry-academia-international synergy.
• Pathway to resilient coastal development and inclusive economic growth.

Conclusion

• The eco-fishing ports initiative is a critical step toward a sustainable blue economy.
• By integrating technology, environmental consciousness, and social inclusion, India is paving the way for future-ready, climate-resilient fisheries infrastructure.

India Records USD 81.04 Billion FDI Inflow in FY 2024–25

FDI Growth Highlights

• India recorded USD 81.04 billion in FDI inflows in FY 2024–25 — a 14% increase over FY 2023–24 (USD 71.28 billion).
• This is a steady rise from USD 36.05 billion in FY 2013–14, showcasing robust long-term growth.

Relevance : GS 3(Economy ,FDI)

Sectoral Breakdown

• Services Sector:
  • Largest recipient with 19% share (USD 9.35 billion).
  • Grew by 40.77% YoY from USD 6.64 billion.
• Computer Software & Hardware: 16% share.
• Trading Sector: 8% share.
• Manufacturing Sector:
  • FDI rose by 18%, from USD 16.12 billion to USD 19.04 billion.

Top Destination States

• Maharashtra: Received the highest share — 39% of total FDI.
• Karnataka: 13%.
• Delhi: 12%.

Major Source Countries

• Singapore: Largest contributor with 30% share.
• Mauritius: 17%.
• United States: 11%.

Long-Term FDI Trends (2003–25)

• USD 748.78 billion FDI inflow between 2014–25 — 143% increase over 2003–14 (USD 308.38 billion).
• This 11-year period (2014–25) accounts for ~70% of total FDI received in the last 25 years (USD 1,072.36 billion).

FDI Source Diversification

• Number of source countries grew from 89 in FY 2013–14 to 112 in FY 2024–25, indicating broader international confidence.

Key Policy Reforms Driving FDI

• 2014–2019 Reforms:
  • Liberalized FDI in Defence, Insurance, Pension.
  • Eased norms in Construction, Civil Aviation, Retail Trading.
• 2019–2024 Reforms:
  • 100% FDI via automatic route in coal mining, contract manufacturing, insurance intermediaries.
• 2025 Union Budget Proposal:
  • Raise FDI cap from 74% to 100% for firms reinvesting all premiums domestically.

Strategic Implications

• Reinforces India’s position as a leading global investment hub.
• Reflects success of a proactive and liberalized FDI regime.
• Supports economic resilience, enhanced investor trust, and Make in India objectives.