New Delhi, June 18 -- The Indian government has announced plans to repeal the Explosives Act of 1884 and replace it with updated legislation, citing the need to address modern industry requirements and regulatory challenges.

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has initiated public consultations on the proposal, seeking comments from citizens, industry associations, and stakeholders until July 17, 2025.

The existing Explosives Act, enacted during British colonial rule, was last comprehensively modified in 1978 following India's independence and the subsequent growth of the explosives manufacturing sector.

According to DPIIT officials, the 141-year-old legislation, which follows outdated British regulatory...