Coastal Shipping Strategic Plan & Database Rules 2026

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has notified the Coastal Shipping (Strategic Plan and National Database) Rules, 2026, under the Coastal Shipping Act, 2025. The rules came into effect on 13 May 2026 and aim to strengthen coastal shipping governance through digital reporting and centralized data management. 

Under the new framework, every vessel engaged in coastal trade must submit voyage commencement and completion reports through the National Database of Coastal Shipping Portal. Voyage commencement reports must be filed within 24 hours before departure, while completion reports are required within 24 hours after arrival. 

The rules also mandate reporting of incidents affecting navigation safety, cargo, or the environment, along with compliance details under the Act. Any corrections in voyage reports must be submitted within one week of identifying the error. 

Additionally, the government will maintain a centralized digital portal, integrated with systems such as the National Single Window System (NSWS) and the Sagarmala National Logistics Portal, to improve data sharing, transparency, and operational efficiency in the coastal shipping sector.