Parliament Passes Five Key Maritime Bills to Boost Blue Economy: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal

Government introduces five new maritime bills to modernize shipping and ports sector

• Bills Introduced:
  1. Bills of Lading Bill, 2025 – Simplifies legal documents to reduce disputes and improve ease of doing business.
  2. Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025 – Replaces 1925 Act, adopts Hague-Visby Rules for reducing litigation and strengthening international maritime ties.
  3. Coastal Shipping Bill, 2025 – Aims to revive India’s 6% modal share, save ~₹10,000 crore annually in logistics costs, reduce pollution and road congestion.
  4. Merchant Shipping Bill, 2025 – Overhauls 1958 Act, facilitates expeditious wreck removal and salvage operations.
  5. Indian Ports Bill, 2025 – Replaces 1908 law, establishes Maritime State Development Council, empowers state maritime boards, and provides mechanisms for state-level dispute resolution.
• Significance:
  • Modernizes maritime legal framework and shipping operations in India.
  • Enhances efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance in maritime transport.
  • Supports national logistics, trade competitiveness, and economic growth.
    
    Updated - August 22, 2025 12:58 PM | News On Air