NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Shipping has allocated Rs 110 crore towards the development of fishermen community in 23 coastal districts of Gujarat, Mumbai, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Goa.The amount would be utilized for modernizing fishing harbors, providing safety training of 20,000 workers engaged in ship recycling activities and supporting the development of deep sea fishing vessels and fish processing centres.“The action has been taken in consonance with the Ministry’s objective for sustainable development of the coastal areas as part of the Sagarmala programme. A well-defined action plan to ensure holistic and sustainable development has been drawn. The coastal communities are recognized as critical stakeholders in the Sagarmala’s port led development,” a release from the shipping ministry said.Modernization of ports, port-led industrialization and enhancement of port-connectivity will be the key drivers for socio-economic development of coastal areas under Sagarmala. More than 200 projects have been identified for implementation in the coastal regions which are expected to generate employment opportunity of approximately 1 crore, including 40 lakh direct jobs by 2025.“The programme, through its skill development initiatives, will broaden the livelihood options especially for coastal communities and adequately equip them with enhanced skill set to increase their employability and standard of living,” the release said.