Indian Ports Bill 2025 Introduced to Modernize Legislation
Why in the News ?
The Indian Ports Bill 2025 was introduced in Lok Sabha to amend the 117-year-old Indian Ports Act, 1908. It aims to modernize port governance, ensure environmental protection, and incorporate international standards while considering state concerns.
Objectives of the Indian Ports Bill 2025 :
- The Indian Ports Bill 2025 was introduced in the Lok Sabha by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to amend the Indian Ports Act, 1908.
- The Bill aims to modernize port governance, incorporate international obligations, and address emerging environmental concerns.
- It seeks to reflect present-day frameworks and ensure the planned development of the port sector in line with national interests.
Reconciliatory Approach:
- Acknowledging past opposition from states, the Bill takes a reconciliatory approach by accommodating state concerns.
- Aims to foster collaboration between the centre and states for streamlined port management.
- The legislation is expected to enhance port efficiency, promote investment, and strengthen India’s maritime sector.
- The Bill marks a step towards making Indian ports globally competitive and environmentally sustainable.
Key Provisions of the Bill● Replaces the pre-independence 1908 Act, which regulated port operations, charges, safety, and conservation. ● Grants powers to the central and state governments for port management, including appointment of port officials, and levying port dues, fees, and charges. ● Introduces measures for pollution prevention and environmental protection to meet international standards. ● Focuses on consultative development by considering the views of state governments and the Union Cabinet. |