Vizhinjam Seaport: India’s First Deep-Water Container Transshipment Port On 2nd May 2025, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala, positioning India as a major transshipment hub. The port aims to reduce India’s dependence on foreign transshipment ports through advanced infrastructure, natural depth and proximity to international shipping routes. Aspect Details Port Location Vizhinjam International Seaport is located in the State of Kerala. Developer The port has been developed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ). Main Purpose The port aims to reduce India’s reliance on foreign ports by using its advanced infrastructure and strategic location.…
20 April, 2026
Ports
Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited: India’s First Maritime NBFC On 26th June 2025, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) inaugurated Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL). SMFCL has been positioned to support India’s maritime infrastructure development and strengthen the country’s long-term port-led growth strategy under the Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. Aspect Details Organisation Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited (SMFCL) is India’s first dedicated maritime infrastructure financing NBFC. Earlier Identity SMFCL was formerly known as Sagarmala Development Company Limited. Registration Status The company was formally registered as a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 19th June…
20 April, 2026
Ports
Indian Ports Act, 2025 On August 18, 2025, the President of India gave assent to the Indian Ports Act, 2025, replacing the colonial-era 1908 Act. This legislation modernizes port governance, aiming to establish integrated and efficient co-operative federalism in the maritime sector. Key Provision Details Statutory Recognition Grants statutory status to State Maritime Boards to regulate non-major ports and the Maritime State Development Council to coordinate national port growth. Dispute Resolution States must establish Dispute Resolution Committees to handle disputes among ports, terminals, and other stakeholders, moving directly to the High Court while barring civil court jurisdiction. Pollution Control Empowers…
11 April, 2026
Ports
Bills of Lading Act, 2025 On July 24, 2025, the President gave assent to the Bills of Lading Act, 2025, replacing the colonial-era 1856 law. The Act aims to modernize the legal framework for maritime documents, aligning India with global international trade standards. Key Provision Details Understanding Bill of Lading A Bill of Lading is a mandatory document issued by a carrier to a shipper. It serves three core functions: receipt of goods, contract of carriage, and document of title. Receipt of Goods Confirms cargo receipt in specified condition. Contract of Carriage Details transportation terms and agreed freight charges. Document…
10 April, 2026
Ports
Acts to Modernize India’s Maritime Sector In August 2025, the President of India gave assent to three landmark Acts to overhaul colonial-era regulations and modernize the maritime legal framework. Act Key Features Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 2025 • International Alignment: Replaces the century-old 1925 Act by adopting internationally recognized Hague-Visby Rules, aligning India with global shipping standards. • Legal Clarity: Provides carrier liabilities and responsibilities, aiming to reduce litigation and enhance commercial efficiency in cargo transport. Merchant Shipping Act, 2025 • Global Compliance: Aligns domestic laws with IMO Conventions, replacing the 1958 Act with vessel registration. • Seafarer…
10 April, 2026
Ports