Indian Ports Bill 2025 passed in Lok Sabha

Introduction

Indian Ports Bill 2025 passed in Lok Sabha: The Lok Sabha has passed the Indian Ports Bill 2025, replacing the Indian Ports Act 1908. The bill seeks to consolidate and modernize the legal framework governing ports in India. It ensures better coordination between the Centre and States, strengthens dispute resolution, and aligns with international maritime standards.

Maritime State Development Council

The Bill provides for the establishment of a Maritime State Development Council by the Central Government. The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways will serve as the ex-officio Chairperson. This body will coordinate policies between major and non-major ports.
Static GK fact: The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways was renamed in 2020, earlier known as the Ministry of Shipping.

Statutory Recognition to State Maritime Boards

State Maritime Boards will be constituted by State Governments to manage non-major ports. These boards will ensure effective administration, safety, and infrastructure development.
Static GK fact: Gujarat was the first state to establish a State Maritime Board in 1982.

Dispute Resolution Mechanism

The Bill mandates State Governments to form Dispute Resolution Committees (DRCs) for issues related to non-major ports. Appeals will lie before the High Court, and civil courts will have no jurisdiction in such matters. This aims to provide a faster and more specialized resolution framework.

Port Tariff Regulations

For major ports, tariffs will be set by the Board of Major Port Authority or respective Board of Directors under the Companies Act, 2013. For non-major ports, tariffs will be determined by State Maritime Boards. This decentralization aims to boost efficiency in port operations.

New Port Notifications and Mega Ports

The Central Government, in consultation with States, will notify new ports and alter port limits. It can also specify the criteria for designating mega ports, aimed at boosting capacity and global competitiveness.
Static GK fact: India’s largest container port is Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Maharashtra.

Environmental and Safety Compliance

The Bill ensures adherence to international maritime conventions like MARPOL and the Ballast Water Management Convention. This strengthens India’s commitment to sustainable shipping practices and environmental protection.
Static GK fact: MARPOL was adopted in 1973 and is one of the most important international marine environmental conventions.

Ports in India

India currently has 12 major ports governed by the Major Port Authorities Act 2021 under the administrative control of the Ministry of Shipping. There are 213 non-major ports, managed by respective State Governments or State Maritime Boards.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Indian Ports Bill 2025 passed in Lok Sabha: