Indian Ports Bill 2025, Steering India towards Global Maritime Leadership
Indian Ports Bill 2025, Steering India towards Global Maritime Leadership
Ports Are Not Just Gateways; they are Engines of India’s Growth!
The Rajya Sabha has officially passed the Indian Ports Bill, 2025, replacing the 116-year-old Indian Ports Act, 1908. This landmark reform is set to modernize India’s maritime framework, strengthen Centre-State collaboration, and position India as a global maritime leader.
Why This Matters for Businesses & Trade
Maritime Growth Story
Cargo handling at Indian ports has jumped from 581 million tones in 2014–15 to 855 million tones in 2024–25.
Efficiency Gains
Cargo handling at Indian ports has jumped from 581 million tones in 2014–15 to 855 million tones in 2024–25.
Global Recognition
9 Indian ports are already ranked in the World Bank’s Container Port Performance Index.
Future-Ready Reforms
The Bill empowers coastal states, mandates green norms aligned with international standards, and introduces digitalization with a Maritime Single Window for faster, transparent operations.
Key Features of the Indian Ports Bill, 2025
- Establishment of the Maritime State Development Council (MSDC) for integrated planning.
- Empowering states to set up State Maritime Boards for uniform governance.
- Dispute Resolution Committees for quicker, sector-specific redressal.
- Compliance with global environmental conventions (MARPOL, Ballast Water Management).
- Stronger disaster readiness and sustainability mandates.
India’s Global Maritime Ambition
Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal called it a “milestone reform that unlocks India’s maritime potential”, aligned with PM Shri Narendra Modi ji’s vision for a Viksit Bharat 2047.
By boosting investor confidence and ensuring sustainable, efficient port operations, this law promises to drive India’s trade competitiveness and export strength.
At Parikh Forwarders, we proudly stand with India’s evolving maritime ecosystem. As partners to exporters and importers, we provide end-to-end freight forwarding, customs clearance, and global logistics solutions, helping businesses leverage these reforms and expand confidently into global markets.
