Indian Ports Bill 2025

March 29, 2025

Recently, the Indian Ports Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. This bill aims to amend the Indian Ports Act of 1908. The legislation seeks to modernise port operations in India. It reflects the changes in international norms and environmental standards. The bill is designed to encourage planned development in the port sector and address emerging challenges.

Historical Context

The Indian Ports Act was established in 1908 to consolidate laws regarding ports and port charges. It defined the powers of both the central and state governments. The Act included provisions for safety, conservation, and the appointment of port officials. Over the years, the dynamics of port operations have evolved . The original legislation is now seen as outdated.

Objectives

The Indian Ports Bill aims to modernise the legal framework governing ports. Key objectives include:

Addressing pollution control and environmental concerns.
Ensuring compliance with international maritime obligations.
Facilitating integrated port development.
Enhancing ease of doing business in the port sector.

Provisions in the Bill

The bill introduces several critical provisions:

Empowerment of state maritime boards for better governance.
Establishment of the Maritime State Development Council for coordinated development.
Mechanisms for efficient dispute resolution related to port operations.
Enhanced focus on disaster management and emergency response

Reactions from Coastal States

The introduction of the bill has sparked controversy among coastal states. Concerns have been raised about the centralisation of power. Many states fear that their authority over non-major ports will be diminished. Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister and others have expressed strong opposition. They argue that the bill undermines state control and local governance.

Parliamentary Deliberations and Amendments

The bill has undergone scrutiny in Parliament. MPs have voiced concerns regarding its implications for state powers. The government has indicated that it took state views into account during the drafting process. A previous version faced backlash, prompting a more reconciliatory approach in the current bill.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

The bill places emphasis on environmental sustainability. It includes provisions for pollution control and safety measures at ports. The aim is to align with global standards and protect marine ecosystems. These measures are critical given the increasing traffic and operational scale of Indian ports.

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