The Director General of Shipping will be renamed the Director General of Maritime Administration as part of upcoming reforms under the new Merchant Shipping Bill, which will soon be presented in the Lok Sabha. This change aims to better reflect the office’s responsibilities, which include overseeing maritime affairs and ensuring compliance with international conventions, according to official sources.
The Bill proposes to repeal and re-enact the Merchant Shipping Act of 1958, establishing a regulatory body for vessel security and port facilities. With India’s extensive coastline and increasing private port development, addressing security threats is essential for maintaining operational integrity and enhancing India’s appeal as a maritime jurisdiction.
Additionally, the National Shipping Board will include six Members of Parliament and up to sixteen other members, with at least four being women, appointed by the Central government. Notably, Parliament members serving on the board will not be viewed as holding an office of profit under Article 102(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution.
The Bill also aims to digitize processes to improve business efficiency and investor confidence, alongside establishing a Seafarer’s Welfare Board to promote seafarer welfare initiatives.
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