Odisha draws up strategy to expand Blue Economy sector through sustainable coastal initiatives

Bhubaneswar: Odisha has started work on a comprehensive strategy for development of the Blue Economy sector, with the state government focusing on marine resource management, coastal infrastructure and livelihood generation through sustainable practices.

The roadmap was discussed during a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg at Lok Seva Bhawan. The meeting examined ways to accelerate growth in the sector by integrating economic development with environmental conservation.

The discussions followed recommendations made during the Global Summit on Blue Economy 2026 organised in Bhubaneswar in March this year.

Officials said Odisha’s long coastline along the Bay of Bengal provides significant opportunities for fisheries, marine industries, tourism and allied sectors. The state plans to adopt an integrated model to ensure balanced and sustainable growth.

The Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department has been assigned as the nodal department for Blue Economy initiatives. Commissioner-cum-Secretary Prem Chandra Chaudhary presented proposed plans involving coordinated efforts among multiple government departments.

A convergence mechanism will be developed involving departments such as Tourism, Water Resources, Forest and Environment, Science and Technology, Energy, and Commerce and Transport. The Bhubaneswar City Knowledge Innovation Cluster (BCKIC) will act as the knowledge partner for the initiative.

To strengthen monitoring and coordination, the government will constitute a task force under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary. A Technical Advisory Group comprising scientists, researchers, industry representatives and biotechnology experts will also be formed.

The meeting reviewed several proposed projects including the establishment of a “Blue Economy Hub (B-Hub)”, Odisha Shrimp Mission, Deep Sea Fishing Mission, seaweed farming, artificial coral reef development and marine fish farming initiatives.

Officials also discussed expansion of real-time weather and sea advisory services for fishermen through the “Fisher Friend” mobile application.

Progress of projects related to modernisation of fish landing centres at Dhamra, Paradip, Chandipur and Astaranga, development of hygienic fish markets, integrated aqua parks and hatcheries for high-value aquatic species also came up for discussion.

Chief Secretary Garg directed all departments to prepare detailed proposals and nominate nodal officers to ensure better coordination and timely implementation of Blue Economy projects across the state.