The Kerala Maritime Board (Amendment) Bill, 2026, aims to reorganize the state maritime board by establishing the chief minister as its chairperson. This restructuring will enable representatives from various departments—including ports, fisheries, industry, finance, revenue, law, and coastal security—to make decisions within a unified framework. Previously, decision-making was cumbersome, requiring coordination across multiple departments. The new structure allows the board to function more efficiently by incorporating all relevant representatives.
The bill enhances the board’s authority over minor ports and inland vessels, establishing a state maritime land bank, port area development authorities, and frameworks for public-private partnerships and long-term investments. While the Inland Vessels Act of 2021 designated the board as the authority for inland vessels, it lacked the necessary legal framework to fulfill this role effectively. This amendment clarifies the board’s responsibilities and empowers it to expedite decision-making processes, allowing it to approve investment proposals in a single meeting.
Additionally, each port will have a dedicated port area development authority responsible for spatial planning, ensuring development occurs within designated zones. The amendment permits public-private partnership concessions for up to 45 years, with government oversight after evaluating investments, which is expected to increase revenue from tenders. The establishment of a state maritime land bank will facilitate the development of non-major ports and maritime industries, with the government contributing land to attract private investment while exploring various funding models. The bill is anticipated to generate significant private investment and create numerous job opportunities, supporting the ‘Mission Samudra’ initiative to transform the state into a maritime hub.
