₹37.47 crore modernisation project aims to enhance seafood infrastructure, support 1,600 fishing vessels and strengthen Karnataka’s fisheries supply chain

Key Highlights

• ₹37.47 crore sanctioned for the modernisation of Mangaluru Fishing Harbour
• Centre has contributed ₹22.48 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
• Project has achieved 25% physical progress, with ₹6.31 crore spent so far
• Harbour designed to accommodate 1,600 fishing vessels and benefit around 18,000 fishers
• Completion is targeted for 21 May 2027
• Karnataka has received ₹126.01 crore for fisheries development projects between 2023-24 and 2026-27

News

The Centre has said the Modernisation and Upgradation of Mangaluru Fishing Harbour is progressing under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), with the project expected to be completed by 21 May 2027.

Approved in 2024 at a total cost of ₹37.47 crore, the project includes a Central contribution of ₹22.48 crore and is aimed at upgrading one of Karnataka’s key fishing harbours to improve marine fisheries infrastructure.

According to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the Karnataka government has reported 25% physical progress, with ₹6.31 crore already spent on the project.

Once completed, the upgraded harbour is expected to provide berthing facilities for 1,600 fishing vessels and directly benefit nearly 18,000 fishers and stakeholders engaged in the fisheries sector.

The ministry also noted that ₹126.01 crore has been released to Karnataka for fisheries development projects between 2023-24 and 2026-27, including funding for fishing harbour infrastructure.

Overall, fisheries projects worth ₹1,053.60 crore have been approved for Karnataka under PMMSY between 2020-21 and 2026-27, covering infrastructure development, post-harvest facilities and beneficiary-oriented schemes.

The state has reported that 212 beneficiaries across Karnataka’s three coastal districts have received support for activities including deep-sea fishing vessels, ice plants, cold storages, refrigerated vehicles, insulated transport vehicles and fish transportation units equipped with ice boxes.

The information was shared by Union Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh) in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.

Hospitality Industry Impact

The modernisation of Mangaluru Fishing Harbour is expected to strengthen seafood handling and logistics along Karnataka’s coast, improving the supply of fresh marine produce to hotels, restaurants and seafood exporters. Enhanced harbour infrastructure, combined with investments in cold storage and refrigerated transport, could help reduce post-harvest losses while ensuring better quality seafood reaches the hospitality sector.

For premium hotels and coastal restaurants, a more efficient fisheries ecosystem can support reliable sourcing of fresh local seafood, an important factor for destination dining and seafood-focused hospitality.

Travel & Tourism Impact

Mangaluru is a prominent coastal destination known for its seafood culture and maritime economy. Upgrading the fishing harbour can complement coastal tourism by improving seafood markets, supporting local fish-based culinary experiences and reinforcing the city’s reputation as a seafood destination. Better fisheries infrastructure may also contribute to stronger linkages between fishing communities, local food businesses and tourism operators.

Why It Matters

The Mangaluru Fishing Harbour upgrade is part of the government’s broader strategy to modernise India’s fisheries infrastructure under PMMSY. Beyond improving operational efficiency for fishers, the project is expected to strengthen seafood supply chains, support coastal livelihoods and create long-term benefits for the hospitality, foodservice and tourism industries.