Indian Ports Bill 2025

Current Affairs National

Posted by newadmin on 2025-03-31 09:02:35 |

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The Indian Ports Bill was recently introduced in the Lok Sabha by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, aiming to amend the Indian Ports Act of 1908. This legislation seeks to modernize port operations in India by aligning with international norms and environmental standards. It promotes planned development in the port sector while addressing emerging challenges.

The Indian Ports Act of 1908 was originally enacted to consolidate laws related to ports and port charges, defining the powers of both the central and state governments. It included provisions for safety, conservation, and the appointment of port officials. However, with the evolution of port operations over the years, the original legislation has become outdated and requires modernization.

The new bill focuses on several key areas, including pollution control, compliance with international maritime obligations, integrated port development, and improving the ease of doing business in the port sector. It empowers state maritime boards for better governance, establishes the Maritime State Development Council to ensure coordinated development, introduces mechanisms for efficient dispute resolution related to port operations, and enhances disaster management and emergency response strategies.

The bill has sparked controversy among coastal states, with concerns about centralization of power. Many states fear that their authority over non-major ports will be reduced. Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister and other leaders have voiced strong opposition, arguing that the bill undermines state control and local governance. Parliamentary deliberations have included scrutiny of its impact on state powers. The government has acknowledged these concerns and has stated that it considered state perspectives while drafting the bill.

A significant aspect of the bill is its emphasis on environmental sustainability. It includes provisions for pollution control and safety measures to protect marine ecosystems. With increasing traffic and the expanding scale of Indian port operations, these measures are crucial to maintaining ecological balance while fostering economic growth.

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