Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
The Major Port Authorities Act, 2021, was enacted to provide for the regulation, operation, and planning of Major Ports in India and to vest the administration, control, and management of such ports upon the Boards of Major Port Authorities and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. This act aims to modernize the governance of major ports and enhance their efficiency and competitiveness. While the Act does not specify a particular ministry, it falls under the purview of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways in India.
Enactment Date, Number of Chapters, Number of Sections:
The Major Port Authorities Act, 2021, was enacted on February 17, 2021. The Act is structured into 14 chapters and 76 sections. These sections cover various aspects of major port governance, including the establishment of Boards, their powers and functions, financial matters, dispute resolution, and miscellaneous provisions.
Act Governed By:
The Act is primarily governed by the provisions outlined within its sections. It establishes the framework for the constitution of Boards of Major Port Authorities, their powers and functions, and the role of the Central Government in overseeing their operations. The Act also outlines the procedures for planning, development, and financial management of major ports.
On Whom It Is Applicable:
The Major Port Authorities Act, 2021, is applicable to the Major Ports of Chennai, Cochin, Deendayal (Kandla), Jawaharlal Nehru (Nhava Sheva), Kolkata, Mormugao, Mumbai, New Mangalore, Paradip, V.O. Chidambaranar (Tuticorin), and Visakhapatnam. It applies to the Boards of Major Port Authorities, their members, officers, and employees, and to all individuals and entities involved in port operations.
Penalties/Punishments:
The Act prescribes penalties for various violations and non-compliance. These include:
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Fine which may extend to one lakh rupees for contravening directions of the Board.
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Fine which may extend to one lakh rupees for wilful failure to comply with the orders of the Appellate Tribunal.
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Other penalties as may be prescribed by rules made under the Act.
The Act also includes provisions for the recovery of dues and the enforcement of decisions through legal means.
Important Pointers:
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The Act establishes Boards of Major Port Authorities to manage the affairs of major ports.
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The Boards are empowered to make regulations for the operation of ports and to levy rates for services.
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The Act outlines the powers and duties of the Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson, and Members of the Board.
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It provides for the constitution of an Adjudicatory Board to resolve disputes.
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The Act emphasizes the importance of planning and development of port infrastructure.
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The Central Government has the power to issue directions to the Boards and to take over management in certain cases.
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The Act ensures that the Boards are accountable for their actions and finances.
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The Act also provides for the protection of actions taken in good faith by authorities under the Act.
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The Act aims to promote efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness in the management of major ports.
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The Act has been enacted to replace the Major Port Trusts Act, 1963.
Act Copy: