Maritime law encompasses a wide range of legal issues, including shipping and navigation, marine pollution, piracy, international trade, and the management of marine resources. India’s maritime zones cover nearly 2.37 million square kilometres, including territorial waters and exclusive economic zones (EEZ). Within these zones, numerous legal and policy issues arise that impact national security, environmental conservation, international trade, and economic stability. Given India’s extensive coastline and strategic interests, maritime law is essential in navigating the multifaceted challenges presented by the global maritime domain.
Despite the strategic and economic importance of maritime law, India’s legal education system offers limited academic programs in this field. Most law schools in India do not include specialized courses in maritime law in their curricula. Consequently, few legal professionals in India possess expertise in maritime issues, and even fewer legal scholars are focused on developing this critical area of law.
This gap has multiple implications. Without specialized maritime legal academicians, Indian legal education misses out on contributing to research and scholarship in maritime law. This affects not only the quality of legal education but also India’s policy development and its ability to effectively participate in international forums on maritime law and governance. Further, the lack of qualified maritime legal academicians limits India’s ability to prepare legal professionals who can address emerging challenges in maritime affairs.
Inducting maritime legal academicians into the Indian legal fraternity could address these issues. Maritime legal academicians would not only teach but also contribute significantly to research in maritime law. Their expertise could lead to the development of comprehensive curricula in maritime law, encouraging more law students to specialize in this area.
Maritime legal academicians could also play a vital role in influencing policy by providing well-researched perspectives on India’s maritime laws and obligations under international conventions. For instance, they could contribute to the ongoing development and implementation of laws that align with the Merchant Shipping Act Bill 2024 and other international maritime treaties (UNCLOS).
To induct maritime legal academicians into the Indian legal academic fraternity, law schools and universities must prioritize maritime law as a specialized field. Establishing dedicated maritime law centres or departments within universities could attract academics and practitioners with expertise in this domain. Partnering with international maritime law institutes and organizations could also enrich the academic ecosystem and provide students with access to a broader array of resources and opportunities.
Government bodies, such as the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), should consider funding scholarships and research grants specifically for maritime legal studies. This support would encourage law schools to include maritime law as part of their curriculum and foster a generation of legal professionals with expertise in this area. Furthermore, mentorship programs and internships with maritime law firms and organizations could provide students with practical experience.
The induction of maritime legal academicians into the Indian legal academic fraternity is essential for preparing the country to address current and emerging challenges in the maritime sector. With the right infrastructure, resources, and support, Indian legal academia can bridge this critical gap, producing professionals equipped to uphold India’s maritime interests on both national and global stages. Investing in maritime legal education will strengthen India’s position in international maritime affairs and ensure that its legal framework evolves with the ever-changing dynamics of the maritime world.
Marex Media