Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal introduces Coastal Shipping Bill 2024 in Lok Sabha

The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024, was introduced in the Lok Sabha amidst a commotion. When the House reconvened after the first adjournment at noon, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal presented the Bill. Its purpose is to consolidate and amend the laws governing coastal shipping, promote coastal trade, and encourage domestic participation.

Additionally, the Bill aims to ensure that India has a coastal fleet owned and operated by its citizens to meet national security and commercial needs.

The legislation has been brought given the challenges arising in the regulation of coasting trade and to strengthen the regulation of vessels engaged in coasting trade by adopting the best global practices and meeting the present and future requirements of the maritime coastal shipping sector.

Join PSU Connect on WhatsApp now for quick updates! Click here

Read Also : NMDC hits November Record High with Production and Sales Growth

 It has provisions related to the prohibition of coasting trade in the coastal water without a license by vessels other than Indian vessels and permitting Inland vessels to engage in coastal trading.

The Bill empowers the Director-General of Shipping to issue a license after taking into consideration certain factors including citizenship of the crew and building requirements of the vessel to create more jobs for Indian seafarers and to promote shipbuilding in the country. Besides, the legislation also seeks to create a National Database of Coastal Shipping.

Read Also : PFC Launches Cancer Detection & Awareness Mobile Van under CSR Initiative