Acknowledging that the Indian Ports Bill 2021 will be a major fillip for the maritime sector, Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) has said that Goa’s interests need to be safeguarded.
Acknowledging that the Indian Ports Bill 2021 will be a major fillip for the maritime sector, Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) has said that Goa’s interests need to be safeguarded.
In a letter addressed to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), GCCI also called for greater participation from the private sector on the state maritime board.
GCCI said that the bill is the “need of the hour” as it could transform the maritime sector into an investment-friendly and growth-oriented sector.
“We feel that the Centre should take the state government into confidence without jeopardising its autonomy and the state should also reciprocate by facilitating cooperation,” said GCCI president Ralph de Sousa.
Sousa wrote to Sanjay Kumar, who is the under secretary for the Sagarmala Cell, with certain recommendations as requested by the MoPSW. The Centre had asked all stakeholders to submit suggestions and recommendations regarding the Indian Ports Bill 2021 by August 30.
The Indian Ports Bill 2021 aims at abolishing the Indian Ports Act, 1908 and substituting it with a more relevant and comprehensive law. However, concerns are being raised that the Bill will dilute the powers of the state.
