New Delhi [India], August 12 (ANI): In a historic move, the Lok Sabha passed the Indian Ports Bill, 2025, ushering in a new era for India’s maritime sector. The act modernises port governance, enhances trade efficiency, and strengthens India’s position as a global maritime leader.
Replacing colonial-era regulations, the bill reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a self-reliant, world-class maritime sector, said Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, who introduced the legislation. The new law replaces the outdated Indian Ports Act, 1908, with contemporary provisions designed to simplify procedures, digitalise operations, and enhance ease of doing business. It also prioritises sustainability, with measures for green initiatives, pollution control, and disaster management.
The bill aims to improve port competitiveness through transparent tariff policies, better investment frameworks, and uniform safety standards across all Indian ports. It is expected to reduce logistics costs by expediting cargo movement and enhancing connectivity, while creating significant employment in operations, logistics, warehousing, and related industries. Exporters and MSMEs will benefit from streamlined procedures and improved infrastructure.
“This bill marks a decisive step toward making India’s ports globally competitive while safeguarding the environment and empowering coastal communities. It embodies the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Ports for Prosperity’ and ensures our maritime sector remains future-ready,” said Sonowal.
Ports will gain greater autonomy with accountability, allowing them to set competitive tariffs within a transparent framework. The bill also promotes integrated long-term planning for port development, improved hinterland connectivity, and stronger coastal shipping through integration with inland waterways and multimodal transport. Clear provisions for Public-Private Partnerships and foreign investment are included.
To support these goals, the bill establishes the Maritime State Development Council (MSDC), bringing together representatives from both Central and State governments to coordinate national port strategies. State Maritime Boards will gain enhanced authority over non-major ports, and Dispute Resolution Committees will expedite conflict settlement between ports, users, and service providers.
Sonowal said the MSDC will boost cooperative federalism by resolving differences and ensuring holistic port development. He added that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India is building an ecosystem to strengthen maritime capabilities and position the country among the top global maritime nations by 2047.
In terms of sustainability and safety, the bill mandates waste reception and handling facilities at all ports, stringent pollution prevention measures aligned with international conventions such as MARPOL and Ballast Water Management, and emergency preparedness plans for disasters and security threats. It also promotes renewable energy and shore power systems to cut emissions.
“The Indian maritime sector has been a key driver of the country’s economic transformation. Initiatives like the Sagarmala Programme and Maritime India Vision 2030 have focused on port-led development, global competitiveness, and environmental stewardship. The Indian Ports Bill, 2025, builds on these efforts, ensuring our ports evolve into engines of sustainable growth and global trade,” Sonowal said.
The legislation aligns India’s legal framework with global best practices and national priorities, focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and inclusivity to position the maritime sector for long-term success in the global economy.
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