During the Monsoon Session, Parliament approved five significant maritime legislations, the most comprehensive reform of India’s maritime framework in over a century. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, emphasized that these reforms will enhance the Blue Economy, improve trade efficiency, and align Indian shipping with global standards.
The five newly passed bills include the Bills of Lading Bill, which simplifies legal documentation and reduces disputes; the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, replacing the outdated 1925 Act to adopt modern rules and strengthen international maritime relations; and the Coastal Shipping Bill, designed to revive coastal shipping’s modal share, aiming for substantial logistics cost savings and reduced emissions.
Additionally, the Merchant Shipping Bill updates provisions for seafarer welfare and marine safety, while the Indian Ports Bill repeals the century-old Ports Act, strengthening state maritime boards and incorporating ecological safeguards for transparent operations. Sonowal hailed this as a historic moment for India’s maritime progress, stating that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the nation is moving away from colonial laws to modernize its blue economy, enhancing trade and investment opportunities along its extensive coastline.
