Kerala is Embracing Blue Economy Vision for Sustained Growth: CM at Kerala-EU Blue Economy Conclave

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:

Noting that Kerala is embracing a Blue Economy Vision that balances economic growth with ecological sustainability and livelihood opportunities, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan today said this is one of the most exciting areas of partnership between the state and European Union based on mutual respect and shared values.

Vijayan made this observation while inaugurating the Kerala-EU Blue Economy Conclave, ‘Blue Tides’, organized by the Department of Fisheries, Govt. of Kerala, in collaboration with the Union Government and the European Union, at The Leela Raviz Kovalam here.

Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj Rajiv Ranjan Singh; Ambassador of European Union to India, Herve Delphin; and Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Minority Affairs, George Kurian were among those present at the inaugural session, presided over by Kerala Minister for Fisheries, Culture and Youth Affairs Saji Cherian.

Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal addressed the conclave online.

The Kerala-EU collaboration, built on mutual respect and shared values could unlock immense opportunities for both partners in sustainable development of blue economy, Vijayan said, adding: “This conclave is not just for dialogue but about charting a shared future.”

Recalling Kerala’s maritime history dating back to centuries, he said, “Today history gives us another opportunity to reaffirm that legacy—not as passive recipients of global currents but as active partners in shaping a sustainable future.”

After building a globally acclaimed model in social development, Kerala has started steadily transforming its economic landscape by investing heavily in infrastructure to create an investor-friendly ecosystem, he pointed out.

“For Kerala, development cannot be discussed without reference to the sea. Our coastline stretches for nearly six hundred kilometres, and for centuries the ocean has defined our economy, our culture, and our identity,” Vijayan said, adding that the state’s abundant water resources are being scientifically managed for agriculture, fisheries, and industry, ensuring sustainability and growth.

The Chief Minister also mentioned the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport, describing it as one of India’s most advanced maritime projects. “It is emerging as a global transshipment hub that will redefine Kerala’s role in international trade and logistics,” he said.

In a coastal ecosystem where over a million people depend directly or indirectly on fisheries and allied activities, fishing communities in the state are not only workers who harvest from the sea but also are custodians of marine biodiversity and traditional knowledge, he noted.

Kerala has also been modernizing fishing harbours, encouraging deep-sea fishing, and introducing new technologies, establishing smart harbours, while safeguarding the rights and livelihoods of small-scale traditional fishers. The state is also making determined efforts to enhance post-harvest value addition, strengthen seafood processing, and diversify export markets.

Rajiv Ranjan Singh, who was Guest of Honour, said Kerala plays a key role in the Union Government’s strategic vision of developing blue economy of the country with sustainable and inclusive initiatives.

“Kerala has been a model state in driving innovation, sustainability and strengthening of livelihoods in the fishery sector”, he added.

He also stated that the Union Government’s initiatives have resulted in a substantial increase in production and export of fish.

In his online address, Sonowal said this conclave serves not only as a platform for forging partnerships but is also a reflection of India’s commitment to sustainable development of blue economy through a slew of pioneering schemes.

Kurian said blue economy figured prominently in the Union Government’s vision of making India a developed nation. “In this endeavour, it is very important to develop strong partnerships,” he noted, lauding Kerala for organizing the conclave.

In his keynote address, Delphin said the conclave opened a window for showcasing Kerala’s immense potential before partners including the private players from India and Europe.

India-EU collaboration covers not only cross sectors but cross geographies as well, opening up immense opportunities for collaborations with states like Kerala, he added.

Europe is looking for partnerships and Kerala is “a go-to place” for such collaborations based on sustainability, inclusivity and innovation, he said adding, Kerala has immense potential to develop its blue economy.

In his presidential address, Saji Cherian said this path-breaking conclave aligned with Kerala’s determination, India’s vision and Europe’s partnerships, which together ensures that the bounty of the ocean nourishes not only economies but also environment and people.

The future of Kerala’s fisheries lies in embracing the principles of blue economy which lays emphasis on sustainability and welfare of the coastal community, Cherian added.

Finance Minister K N Balagopal; Revenue and Housing Minister K Rajan; Tourism and Public Works Minister P A Mohamed Riyas; Minister for Health and Woman & Child Development, Veena George; Minister for Ports, Museums and Archeology, Ramachandran Kadanapally and J Chinchurani, Minister for Dairy Development and Animal Husbandry, were also present on the occasion.

M A Yusuff Ali, CMD Lulu Group and Vice-chairman NORKA-ROOTS, said Lulu Group, already a major investor in the state, will augment its investment in the fisheries sector in Kerala.

Dr. A Jayathilak, Chief Secretary, Govt. of Kerala, welcomed the guests, who included Prof. K V Thomas, former Union Minister and Special Representative of the Kerala Government in Delhi, and Director – Fisheries, Chelsasini V.

Special Secretary, Fisheries, B Abdul Nasar proposed the Vote of Thanks.

Ambassadors and representatives from 18 members of the European Union are attending the conclave which commenced yesterday.