In paragraph 146 states that "The Ministry of Shipping drafted the Major Ports Regulatory Authority Bill 2011 to establish the Major Ports Regulatory Authority (MPRA). If this Bill is enacted, the MPRA will replace the TAMP, but not with regard to tariff fixation. The Bill proposes that tariff fixation would be undertaken by the respective port authorities under guidelines issued by MPRA. The MPRA would also be responsible for monitoring performance of port authorities/private operators, and resolving disputes between port authorities, private operators, and users."
Qn. Mexico wants to know if the said Authority would also settles disputes between port authorities and private operators with foreign participation under the same conditions as for Indian nationals.
Reply: Yes, MPRA in the present draft form envisages no discrimination with regard to dispute resolution between port authorities and private operators with foreign participants (investors) and Indian Investors. However, the Major Ports Regulatory Authority Bill is yet to be finalized.