Parliament Passes Bill to Update and Simplify Shipping Documents

The Indian Parliament has passed the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, which updates and simplifies the legal framework for shipping documents. The bill replaces the Indian Bill of Lading Act 1856 and aims to provide provisions for the transfer of rights and liabilities related to goods being carried. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal moved the bill for consideration and passage in the Rajya Sabha.

The Indian Parliament has passed the Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, aimed at updating and simplifying the legal framework for shipping documents. This new legislation replaces the outdated Indian Bill of Lading Act 1856 and introduces provisions for the transfer of rights and liabilities related to goods being carried. The bill was moved for consideration and passage in the Rajya Sabha by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal [1].

The Bills of Lading Bill, 2025, was initially passed by the Lok Sabha in March 2025 and subsequently passed in the Rajya Sabha by a voice vote in the absence of the Opposition, who staged a walkout during the post-lunch session on July 21, 2025 [2]. The bill seeks to modernize the legal rules for shipping documents, making provisions for the transfer of rights and liabilities to the consignee named in a bill of lading and every endorsee of a bill of lading.

A bill of lading is a document issued by a freight carrier to a shipper, containing details such as the type, quantity, condition, and destination of goods being carried. The new bill aims to address concerns about e-bill of lading and modernize the framework to include digital versions of these documents, which are not merely digital replicas of physical bills [3].

The passage of this bill is a significant step towards modernizing the shipping industry in India. It aligns with the government's broader strategy to enhance connectivity and efficiency in the logistics sector. The bill is expected to simplify shipping processes, reduce administrative burdens, and promote transparency and accountability.

References:
[1] https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/parl-passes-bill-to-update-simplify-legal-framework-for-shipping-documents-125072101315_1.html
[2] https://m.economictimes.com/news/india/parliament-passes-bill-to-update-simplify-legal-framework-for-shipping-documents/articleshow/122814342.cms
[3] https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/rajya-sabha-passes-the-bills-of-lading-2025/article69838107.ece