Lok Sabha Passes Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill

Why in News?

The Lok Sabha passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024, replacing the 1925 Act to modernize maritime regulations. The Bill simplifies laws, aligns with international standards, and promotes ease of doing business in shipping.

Lok Sabha Passes Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill

About the Purpose and Key Features of the Bill:

  • Lok Sabha passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024 on March 28, 2025, to replace the Indian Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925.
  • The Bill aims to modernize maritime regulations and align them with international standards under the Hague Rules and subsequent amendments.
  • It grants the Union Government the authority to issue directions and amend schedules related to Bills of Lading.
  • A Bill of Lading is a document issued by a freight carrier to a shipper, detailing the type, quantity, condition, and destination of goods.
  • The Bill retains existing provisions while simplifying language and enhancing ease of understanding for stakeholders.

Government’s Initiative to Remove Colonial Laws:

  • Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal emphasized the government’s initiative to eliminate colonial-era laws and simplify maritime regulations for the ease of doing business.
  • The legislation aims to establish clear responsibilities, liabilities, rights, and immunities for carriers in the shipping industry.
  • The Bill was passed by voice vote in Lok Sabha after its introduction on August 9, 2024.

Expected Benefits and Impact

  • The Bill seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in the maritime sector by streamlining regulations.
  • It ensures efficient shipping operations by providing a clear legal framework for goods transportation.
  • The move aligns with the government’s vision of “ease of doing business” and a rationalized legal structure.
  • It aims to foster stakeholder confidence and promote global trade through modernized maritime laws.