Coastal Shipping Bill prohibits non-Indian vessels from coasting trade without licence

The Bill aims to regulate coastal shipping in India by prohibiting non-Indian vessels from engaging in coasting trade unless licensed, with the goal of promoting domestic participation and ensuring India has a coastal fleet owned and operated by its citizens for national security and commercial needs.

Who it concerns: The law applies to all vessels (other than Indian vessels) engaged in coasting trade, chartered vessels operating in coastal waters, and any person, owner, master, charterer, or operator involved in such trade. It also applies to the coastal waters of India, including inland waters specified by the Central Government.

What the bill does

• Prohibits non-Indian vessels from engaging in coasting trade unless they hold a licence granted by the Director-General.
• Requires the Director-General to consider factors like crew citizenship, vessel safety, and national security when issuing licences.
• Mandates the creation of a National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan to be published within two years and updated every two years.
• Establishes a National Database of Coastal Shipping maintained by the Director-General.
• Requires vessels to report voyage details, cargo, and ports of call to the Director-General.
• Prohibits port clearance for non-Indian vessels without production of a valid licence.
• Grants powers to suspend, revoke, or modify licences for violations or non-compliance.
• Specifies penalties and punishments for offences such as unlicensed coasting trade, false reporting, and violation of detention orders.

Also in the document

• The Bill consolidates and amends existing laws relating to the regulation of coastal shipping.
• It creates specific offences and penalties for contraventions of the Act.
• It includes provisions for the detention of vessels and adjudication of penalties by an adjudicating officer.