(a) whether the Government has any plan to drop the proposed Port Regulatory
Authority Bill – 2011 and empower the State Governments to make legislation in
regard to minor ports;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) if not, the reasons therefor; and
(d) the steps taken/proposed to be taken on Public Private Partnership(PPP)
mode for development of ports in the country?
MINISTER OF SHIPPING (SHRI G.K.VASAN )
(a) to (c): Yes, Madam. In view of the reservations expressed by Stakeholders
including Maritime States, the Ministry of Shipping has decided not to pursue the
proposed Port Regulatory Authority (PRA) Bill. In regard to Non-Major Ports, the
State Governments are already empowered under the Indian Ports Act, 1908.
(d): The Government has taken the following steps to promote PPP mode for
development of Ports in the country:
(i) Upto 100% FDI under the automatic route is allowed for Port development
projects.
(ii) Income tax incentives are allowed as per the Income Tax Act, 1961.
(iii) Bidding documents like RFQ, RFP and Concession Agreement have been
standardized.
(iv) Enhanced delegation of financial powers to Shipping Ministry to accord investment
approval for PPP projects.
(v) Streamlining of security clearance procedures.
(vi) Close monitoring by the Shipping Ministry to expedite project approvals and
implementation.