India’s blue economy: The next wave of opportunity
A strong Blue Economy can transform sustainable fisheries and aquaculture to improve incomes and nutritional security. Modern ports, shipping and logistics can enhance trade competitiveness
For centuries, the ocean has carried India’s trade, shaped its coastal cultures and strengthened its strategic influence. Today, with an 11,098-kilometre coastline, vast marine resources and a commanding position in the Indian Ocean, it offers a new frontier for India’s development.
As the nation advances towards Viksit Bharat 2047, the Blue Economy is emerging as a powerful pathway to prosperity, sustainability and national strength. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has placed this opportunity at the heart of India’s growth vision. His 80th Independence Day speech identified the Blue Economy as one of the seven streams, or Sapta-Dhara, that will propel the country forward.
The Blue Economy is not simply an economy of the ocean, but of people, ideas and possibilities. It is about securing better livelihoods for fisherfolk and coastal communities, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors, strengthening food and energy security, and using science to build climate-resilient coasts. Above all, it is about ensuring that economic progress and environmental responsibility move together.
This opportunity is accompanied by urgent challenges. Marine pollution and climate change are putting tremendous pressure on marine resources. These challenges can become catalysts for innovation, sustainable intervention and investment. By accelerating technology........
