India, Oct. 12 -- India's maritime geography is both an opportunity and a responsibility. With an extensive coastline of over 11,000 kilometres, nine coastal states, and four Union Territories, the country is naturally positioned to harness coastal shipping as an economic and strategic asset. Yet, for decades, India's shipping sector remained under-utilised compared to road, rail, and inland water transport. The Coastal Shipping Act, 2025, which replaces Part XIV of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, marks a decisive policy shift. It provides a modern legal and regulatory framework designed to unlock India's maritime potential by simplifying processes, encouraging investment, and strengthening security oversight. The goal is clear and ambit...