The Bills of Lading Bill, 2024 was introduced in Lok Sabha on August 9, 2024.  It seeks to replace the Indian Bills of Lading Act, 1856.  The Act provides a legal framework for issuance of bills of lading.  A bill of lading refers to a document issued by a freight carrier to a shipper.  It contains details such as the type, quantity, condition, and destination of goods being carried.  The Act states that a bill of lading is conclusive evidence of goods on board.  It grants following persons all rights of suit and liabilities regarding the goods: (i) the receiver as per the bill of lading, or (ii) any third party to whom the receiver may transfer the ownership of goods.  The Bill retains all provisions under the Act.

Power to issue directions:  The Bill adds that the central government may issue directions for carrying out the provisions of the Bill.