Why in news?
In August 2025 the Rajya Sabha passed the Indian Ports Bill, 2025. The new legislation aims to replace the colonial‑era Indian Ports Act of 1908 with a modern, transparent framework for India’s ports.
What does the Bill do?
The Bill seeks to create a contemporary governance structure for major and non‑major ports. Its goals include strengthening cooperative federalism, ensuring environmental compliance and encouraging private investment and public‑private partnerships.
Key features
- Institutional reforms: Establishes a Maritime State Development Council to coordinate between the Centre and states. It also proposes state maritime boards for non‑major ports and dispute resolution committees for sector‑specific grievances.
- Operational reforms: Allows tariff autonomy under transparent rules, and promotes integrated planning for cargo growth and multimodal logistics. The Bill encourages digitalisation through a Maritime Single Window, electronic vessel tracking and online clearances.
- Environmental and safety measures: Mandates waste reception facilities and ballast‑water management to prevent marine pollution. Ports must comply with MARPOL conventions and adopt renewable energy and emergency preparedness plans.
Why it matters
- Economic growth: Ports are gateways for trade, logistics and employment. Modern regulations can help India become a global maritime hub.
- Global alignment: A modern ports law brings India in line with international best practices, improving investor confidence.
- Sustainability: By emphasising waste management, renewable energy and green infrastructure, the Bill aims to make ports environmentally friendly.
