India has once again secured its place on the prestigious Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the 2026–27 term, receiving the highest number of votes in Category B, a group reserved for nations with the largest interest in international seaborne trade.
Key points
- In elections held during the 34th session of the IMO Assembly in London, India garnered 154 out of 169 valid votes, topping the category for the second consecutive biennium.
- With significant advancements in shipbuilding, port modernisation, inland and coastal shipping, and green maritime initiatives, India continues to consolidate its role as an influential voice in shaping global maritime governance and sustainable ocean practices.
About the International Maritime Organization (IMO)
- The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for regulating global shipping to ensure safety, security, and environmental stewardship at sea.
- Established in 1948 and headquartered in London, the IMO develops and enforces international standards covering ship design, navigation, pollution control, maritime security, and emergency response.
- Key conventions such as SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea), MARPOL (Marine Pollution), and STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) form the backbone of global maritime governance.
- Today, with 175 member states, the IMO plays a pivotal role in promoting cleaner and more efficient shipping through initiatives like decarbonization, green fuels, digital navigation, and safer maritime corridors.
- Its council, including nations elected across Categories A, B, and C, shapes strategic decisions and policy directions, ensuring that maritime trade remains safe, sustainable, and globally harmonized.
