United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) of 1982, commonly referred to as the 'Law of the Sea,' is a pivotal international treaty signed in 1982 and formally adopted in 1994. This landmark agreement establishes the essential legal framework governing marine and maritime operations worldwide. Serving as the sole international accord addressing state authority in maritime regions, UNCLOS designates specific maritime zones, each with distinct legal status. Acting as the bedrock of maritime navigation, it governs the rights and responsibilities of both sea travellers and coastal states in offshore territories. India is the state party to UNCLOS. Maritime zones Under UNCLOS : Maritime Zones under UNCLOS 1. Baseline/Internal Waters: The base line is first drawn by joining the seaward limits. All the waters within the baseline and coasts are referred as internal waters. Internal waters is as good as land of the coastal state. All laws which can be en