The government is planning to introduce Pradhanmantri Jalamarg Yojana on the lines of Pradhanmantri Gram Sadak Yojana. Shipping Minister Nitin Gadkari told the Rajya Sabha today that the government wants to encourage water transport system as it is the least polluted compared to road and railway transport systems. The Minister was replying to a discussion on the two Merchant Shipping (Amendment) Bills, which were later passed by the House by voice vote. Mr Gadkari said his ministry is ready to set up dry ports in parts of the country to facilitate the water transport system. He assured the House for the revival of the Shipping industry which is facing severe economic constraints.

The bills propose to amend the Merchant Shipping Act of 1958 to provide for the enforcement of Anti-Fouling Systems on ships. All Indian flag vessels having 400 gross tonnage or more, engaged in international voyages, will be issued with an International anti-Fouling System Certificate. It also aims at giving Maritime Labour Certificate for every Indian Flag vessel of 500 gross tonnage or more and engaged in international voyages.