The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has prepared a draft amendment to the Indian Ports Act, 1908, with the goal of bringing in sweeping reforms in the sector by bringing nonmajor ports into the national fold, creating a new dispute resolution mechanism, and empowering maritime state development councils (MSDC). Before being introduced in the Parliament, the draft legislation will receive feedback from stakeholders. The bill aims to eliminate decision-making delays for non-major ports by establishing a council. However, sector experts have said that the bill could face the same fate as the Major Ports Authority Act amendment, which was introduced last year and faced criticism over the possibility of concentration of power in the hands of the central government.
Contact: Ministry of Ports,Shipping and Waterways
Website: shipmin.gov.in
