Transforming India's Maritime Landscape: The Indian Ports Bill 2025

The Indian Ports Bill 2025 seeks to modernize India's port infrastructure by classifying certain ports as 'mega ports' and establishing a Maritime State Development Council. It aims to integrate port development sustainably and introduces a new dispute resolution mechanism, proposing more centralized control over port operations.

The Lok Sabha witnessed the introduction of the Indian Ports Bill 2025, aimed at revolutionizing the country's maritime infrastructure. Proposed by Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the bill seeks to supplant the archaic Indian Ports Act of 1908, ushering in a new era of port governance.

A noteworthy provision in the bill is the classification of specific ports as 'mega ports', designated by meeting certain government criteria. It also envisions the creation of a Maritime State Development Council to optimize port operations, boost efficiency, and heighten competition while fostering sustainable coastal development in alignment with international obligations.

The bill has sparked controversy, with opposition from figures like K Radhakrishnan (CPI-M) who argue that it infringes upon state governance. The proposed centralization and dispute resolution mechanisms, critics fear, could undermine the rights of private port operators and workers, leading to fierce debates within the legislative chambers.

(With inputs from agencies.)