National Current Affairs
India Re-elected to IMO Council
- 01 Dec 2025
- 3 min read
Why in News?
India has been re-elected to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for 2026-27 under Category B with the highest vote count, reaffirming its leadership role in global maritime affairs.
- The re-election follows the successful hosting of India Maritime Week 2025, which featured participation from over 100 countries.
Key Points
- About: The International Maritime Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations that is responsible for measures to improve the safety and security of international shipping and to prevent pollution from ships.
- It is also involved in legal matters, including liability and compensation issues, as well as the facilitation of international maritime traffic.
- It was established by means of a Convention adopted under the auspices of the United Nations in Geneva on 6 March 1948, and met for the first time in January 1959.
- IMO Council: The Council is the executive organ of IMO and is responsible, under the Assembly, for supervising the work of the Organization.
- The Council is made up of 40 Member States, elected by the Assembly for two-year terms.
- Election Outcome:
- In the elections held during the 34th IMO Assembly in London, India secured 154 out of 169 valid votes, the highest in Category B, which includes 10 major seaborne trade nations.
- Category B represents countries with the largest interest in international seaborne trade; India’s re-election highlights its growing maritime relevance and influence.
- Alongside India, Category B members elected include Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the UAE, reflecting a group of major maritime trading nations.
- Significance:
- This marks India’s second consecutive biennium securing the highest votes in Category B, reinforcing progress under the Amrit Kaal Maritime Vision 2047 to become a globally competitive maritime hub.
- The mandate validates India’s commitment to a safe, secure, efficient, and green maritime ecosystem, positioning the country as a trusted voice in shaping global shipping policies.
