In March 2025, India's Parliament passed the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025. What was the primary objective of this legislation?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is: (D) To modernise the 169 years old shipping law

• The primary objective of the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, passed by India's Parliament in March 2025, was to replace the colonial-era Indian Bills of Lading Act, 1856, which had governed shipping documentation for nearly 169 years.
• The new legislation aims to modernize and simplify the legal framework for shipping documents, making it more relevant to contemporary maritime practices and aligning it with international standards.

• Simplification of Language: The bill updates and simplifies the language of the existing law to make it more accessible and understandable.

• Reorganization of Provisions: It reorganizes the provisions without altering their underlying substance, enhancing clarity.

• Empowerment of the Central Government: The bill empowers the Central Government to issue directions for effective implementation.

• Elimination of Colonial Legacy: It removes outdated colonial provisions to reflect India's modern identity.

Significance

• This legislative reform is part of India's broader effort to modernize its maritime laws and enhance its competitiveness in international shipping.
• By aligning with global standards, the bill aims to facilitate smoother and more secure shipping practices, reduce litigation risks, and improve clarity for carriers, shippers, and lawful holders of goods.