Modernizing India's Maritime Laws: A Double Bill Triumph in Parliament

Two landmark maritime bills, the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024 and Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025, were approved in both Houses of India's Parliament. These bills aim to modernize India's maritime sector by replacing outdated legislation with globally aligned frameworks, enhancing efficiency, safety, and ease of doing business.

The Indian Parliament marked a historic day as it approved two crucial maritime bills, aiming to modernize the country's maritime governance. Amid opposition protests, the Rajya Sabha passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025, while the Lok Sabha cleared the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024.

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal hailed the passage of the bills as a significant step towards realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a modern maritime sector. These legislations align India's maritime laws with international standards, enhancing safety, transparency, and competitiveness.

The legislations replace outdated colonial-era laws and prioritize seafarer welfare, environmental protection, and Indian tonnage promotion. The bills were approved with bipartisan support, signaling a shift towards simplified, efficient maritime trade laws that position India as a global maritime hub.