International Journal of Business Management & Research - Volumes & Issues - Volume 15: Dec 2025, Issue 2

Beyond Coastal Boundaries: Financing The Inland Blue Economy In India – Evidence From Punjab

  • Published: July-Dec 2025
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Authors

Dr. Manpreet Kaur, Manmeet Singh and Gurjit Kaur

DOI Number

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Keywords

Blue Economy, Punjab, Inland Aquaculture, Sustainable Finance, Blue Bonds, Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs)

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates sustainable financing models for water-based sectors contributing to the Blue Economy in Punjab, a non-coastal Indian state. It explores how inland aquaculture, fisheries, and water resource management can be integrated into India’s Blue Economy through appropriate financial mechanisms.

Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining field surveys across four districts of Punjab with secondary data analysis. A total of 50 stakeholders were surveyed to assess awareness, access, and satisfaction related to financing. Statistical techniques, including regression and ANOVA, were used to explore relationships among variables.

Findings: The study found that access to funding varies across districts, with awareness levels significantly predicting satisfaction. Despite available schemes like PMMSY and NABARD’s Aquaculture Fund, procedural hurdles limit access. Stakeholders showed a strong preference for sustainable, long-term instruments such as blue bonds over PPPs.

Implications: The research informs policymakers and financial institutions on the need to develop customized, inclusive, and environmentally responsible financial products for inland Blue Economy actors. It also advocates for stronger institutional outreach and awareness-building in non-coastal states.

Originality: This research is one of the first to examine the inland dimensions of the Blue Economy in India. By focusing on Punjab, it expands the geographic and conceptual scope of Blue Economy discourse beyond the traditional maritime framework.

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How to cite

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Journal

International Journal of Business Management & Research

ISSN

2249-2143

Periodicity

Bi-Annually

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