The Rajya Sabha has cleared the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025, on August 6, 2025. It repealed a century-old Indian Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925. The Bill aligns India’s maritime law with international conventions and seeks to modernise provisions governing the transport of goods by sea.
The Lok Sabha passed the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2025, on the same day. It replaces the outdated Merchant Shipping Act of 1958. With 16 Parts and 325 clauses, the Bill modernises India’s maritime legal framework by aligning with international conventions. It also reduces compliance burdens, promotes Indian tonnage, and prioritises seafarer welfare and ship safety.