HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, March 28: The Lok Sabha on Friday passed the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024’ in an attempt to modernise, update legal framework as well as enhance Ease of Doing Business (EODB) in India’s maritime sector.
The bill was introduced by Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW).
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In an effort to support the country’s growing shipping sector, Sonowal introduced the ‘Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024,’ marking a significant legislative reform by replacing the colonial-era ‘Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925’. The colonial era act was rooted in the century-old Hague Rules, which limited scope with complex language, and misaligned with modern commercial realities. The new bill addresses these gaps with clarity, foresight, and renewed relevance for a rapidly evolving maritime sector.
“The passing of the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill in the Lok Sabha marks a crucial step toward realising PM Narendra Modiji’s vision of updating & modernising India’s legal framework—making it more relevant, efficient, and accessible, while shedding colonial-era legacies that have impeded progress. The passage of this bill is a significant step toward strengthening India’s legal foundation for maritime commerce. It not only promotes investor confidence but also positions India as Viksit Bharat,” Sonowal said.
The Union minister also introduced the ‘Indian Ports Bill, 2025’, aimed at consolidating laws related to port management, promoting integrated port development, and enhancing the ease of doing business in the maritime sector. The bill seeks 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. It also proposes the formation of the Maritime State Development Council to foster structured growth and development of the port sector.
Adding further, Sonowal said that todaymarks a historic milestone in India’s journey towards a modern, efficient, and globally competitive shipping sector.
“The passing of the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha is a significant step in fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modiji’s vision of modernising India’s Maritime sector to become future ready and globally competitive,” he added.
