Revolutionizing India's Maritime Future: A New Era in Shipping Legislation

In a decisive legislative session on Monday, Parliament passed The Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, marking a significant modernization of India's shipping document framework. The bill aims to overhaul outdated colonial-era legislation, reflecting India's commitment to advancing its maritime sector.

Introduced by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, the bill was passed by a voice vote in the Rajya Sabha, following initial approval in the Lok Sabha. The absence of Congress, which staged a walkout, did not impede its progress. Sonowal emphasized India's role in global shipping, handling over 90% of exim cargo by volume and 70% by value.

Critics argue that while the bill represents progress, it must balance modernization with accountability. Stakeholders, including Aam Aadmi Party's Ashok Kumar Mittal and BJP's Ajeet Madhavrao Gopchade, shared differing views, highlighting the need for legal clarity and safeguards against potential misuse in freight pricing and fraudulent trading.

(With inputs from agencies.)