New Delhi: On Thursday, the Rajya Sabha successfully passed two crucial bills, namely the Press and Registration of Periodicals (PRP) Bill and the Offshore Areas Minerals Development and Regulation Amendment (OAMDR) Bill of 2023.
The Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill aims to replace the existing legislation that governs the registration process for the print and publishing industry in India. This new bill will simplify the registration process for periodicals and eliminate provisions for prosecution and imprisonment of publishers, streamlining the industry's operations.
Concurrently, the Offshore Areas Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2023, was also approved. This landmark bill introduces a fixed 50-year production lease for offshore minerals. It revolutionizes the allocation of operating rights by implementing an auction system for offshore areas, promoting fair competition and efficiency.
In a separate session, the Lok Sabha successfully passed The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, also known as the Delhi services bill. However, following the bill's passage, several opposition MPs (Members of parliament) walked out in protest.
The Delhi services bill grants the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Delhi the authority over the transfer, posting, and management of officers within the capital region. This move aims to streamline administrative processes and enhance governance in Delhi.
With India's vision to become a high-growth economy, harnessing maritime resources becomes crucial. The Ministry of Mines emphasized the significance of public and private sector participation in fully utilizing these resources. The introduction of the Offshore Areas Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2023, is expected to pave the way for optimal utilization of India's maritime potential.
The private sector's involvement is particularly emphasized, as it brings the necessary expertise and technology to explore and mine the mineral resources present in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
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