Parliament passes Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, replacing an 1856 colonial law
On 21 July 2025, the first day of the Monsoon Session, the Rajya Sabha passed the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, already cleared by the Lok Sabha in March 2025.
Summary
The Rajya Sabha passed the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, on 21 July 2025, the first day of the Monsoon Session, completing its passage through Parliament; the Lok Sabha had cleared it in March 2025. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal tabled the bill. Once it receives Presidential assent, the law will replace the 169-year-old colonial-era Act of 1856 with a simplified framework for shipping documents, using clearer language on the rights and obligations of carriers, shippers and lawful holders. A repeal and saving clause keeps past actions under the old Act valid.
Key facts
- Passed by Rajya Sabha
- 21 July 2025 (first day of Monsoon Session)
- Passed by Lok Sabha
- March 2025
- Tabled by
- Sarbananda Sonowal, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
- Replaces
- Colonial-era Act of 1856 (169 years old)
- Next
- Presidential assent
Practice MCQs 2 questions
The Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, passed by Parliament in July 2025, replaces a colonial-era law of which year?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — 1856
PIB (MoPSW): once enacted, the bill will replace the 169-year-old colonial-era Act of 1856.
Who tabled the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, in the Rajya Sabha on 21 July 2025?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — Sarbananda Sonowal
PIB: Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal tabled the bill in the Rajya Sabha; the Lok Sabha had passed it in March 2025.