The Lok Sabha on Tuesday cleared the Indian Ports Bill, 2025, by voice vote, even as opposition MPs continued protests demanding a discussion on the revision of electoral rolls in Bihar.
Introduced by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, the legislation replaces the 115-year-old Indian Ports Act, 1908, with a modern framework aimed at boosting trade efficiency, reducing logistics costs, and positioning India as a global maritime leader.
Key Features
The bill streamlines port procedures, promotes digitalization to enhance ease of doing business, and introduces transparent tariff policies. It emphasizes green initiatives, pollution control, and disaster management, aligning with international conventions like MARPOL. Ports will gain greater autonomy with accountability, enabling competitive tariffs, integrated long-term planning, and improved hinterland connectivity.
The law also encourages coastal shipping, integration with inland waterways, and multimodal transport. Clear provisions for public-private partnerships (PPPs) and foreign investment aim to attract funding for port projects.
Institutional Framework
A strengthened Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) will coordinate central and state efforts for port development, while state maritime boards will oversee non-major ports. Dispute resolution committees will handle conflicts between ports, users, and service providers.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The bill is expected to generate jobs in port operations, logistics, and allied sectors, while exporters and MSMEs will benefit from improved infrastructure and reduced bottlenecks. Sustainability measures mandate waste reception facilities, renewable energy adoption, and emergency preparedness at all ports.
Calling the legislation a “decisive step” towards globally competitive and environmentally responsible ports, Sonowal said it aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat and aims to make India one of the world’s top maritime nations by 2047.
