<span style="color: #222222;">Ministry of Shipping has issued the draft of Coastal Shipping Bill, 2020 for suggestions from stakeholders and general public. </span><br />'' <br />''<span style="color: #222222;">A need was felt to have a separate legislation on coastal shipping as the shipping sector grows and evolves in the country. </span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">The global best practices have also been considered while drafting this Bill. The definition of coastal shipping and coastal waters has been expanded in the Bill.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">It is proposed to do away with the requirement of trading licence for Indian flag vessels for coastal trade. </span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">The Bill seeks to create a competitive environment and reduce transportation costs, while encouraging Indian vessels to increase their share in coastal shipping. </span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">The Bill also proposes integration of coastal maritime transport with inland waterways.<br />'' </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">The draft bill is uploaded on the Shipping Ministry's website. </span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Citizens can submit their suggestions and opinions regarding the draft bill to <a href="mailto:coastalshipping2020@gmail.com" target="_blank"><span style="color: #4285f4;">coastalshipping2020@gmail.com</span></a> latest by 6th of November.</span><br />''