The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways introduced the Indian Ports Bill, 2025, in Lok Sabha on March 28, 2025. This bill is aimed at consolidating laws related to port management, promoting integrated port development, as well as enhancing the ease of doing business (EODB) in the maritime sector. It aims to optimise the utilisation of India’s vast coastline by establishing and empowering state maritime boards to ensure effective management of ports other than major ports.
Further, the bill also proposes the formation of the Maritime State Development Council to foster structured growth and development of the port sector. It empowers the government, allowing India to swiftly adapt to evolving international maritime conventions.