GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF SHIPPING

LOK SABHA

UNSTARRED QUESTION NO: 5451

ANSWERED ON:13.12.2010

CARRIER AT COASTAL AREAS

HARSH VARDHAN

(a)whether the carrier industry at coastal areas was under the suzerainty of shipping companies till now;

(b)if so, the details thereof;

(c)whether the Government is contemplating to allow the entry of foreign shipping companies in this sector;

(d)if so, the salient features of the proposal; and

(e)the benefit likely to be accrued as a result of the entry of foreign shipping companies in these areas?

Will the Minister of SHIPPINGbe pleased to state:- 

ANSWER

MINISTER OF SHIPPING

(SHRI G.K. VASAN)

 (a): No, Madam.

(b): Does not arise.

(c) & (d): Foreign flag ships are already permitted to engage in shipping in coastal areas in accordance with provisions of Sections 406 and 407 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 and Shipping Development Circular No. 2 of 2002. (e): Permitting foreign ships when Indian tonnage is not available ensures that the trade is not interrupted.