New Delhi, April 1 -- Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal will introduce the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024, in the Lok Sabha today.

The legislation aims to consolidate and amend existing regulations related to coastal shipping, with the primary goal of promoting coasting trade and enhancing domestic participation in the sector.

The bill seeks to ensure that India develops a robust coastal fleet owned and operated by its citizens, addressing both national security concerns and commercial requirements.

This move is part of broader efforts to strengthen India's maritime capabilities and infrastructure.

In a separate development, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and BJP's Mitesh Patel Bakabhai will present the sixth...