Parliament Approves ‘Bills of Lading, 2025’; Modern Maritime Law Set to Replace Colonial Legislation:

On the opening day of the Monsoon Session, the Rajya Sabha passed the ‘Bills of Lading, 2025’ Bill, following its earlier passage in the Lok Sabha. The bill, introduced by Union Ports and Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, is a landmark step to overhaul India’s outdated maritime shipping law. Once signed by the President, it will repeal the colonial-era Indian Lading Act of 1856 and introduce a modern, internationally compatible legal framework for shipping documents and practices.