India Re-elected to the IMO Council for 2026–27 with Highest Vote Tally

India has achieved a significant diplomatic milestone: it has been re-elected to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the 2026–27 biennium, securing the highest number of votes in Category B.

Election Details:
- Held on 28 November 2025 at the 34th Session of the IMO Assembly in London.
- India received 154 out of 169 valid votes, the highest tally in its category.

Category B:
- Comprises 10 countries with the largest interest in international seaborne trade.
- India’s re-election underscores its growing influence in global shipping.

Leadership Statements:
- Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, called it a “proud moment for India’s maritime sector,” highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a safe, secure, and green maritime domain.

Context:
- This is the second consecutive biennium where India has secured the highest tally in Category B.
- The achievement follows the successful India Maritime Week 2025, which saw participation from over 100 countries.

Significance:
- Reflects global confidence in India’s constructive leadership in shipping.
- Validates India’s maritime growth agenda under the Amrit Kaal Maritime Vision 2047.
- Strengthens India’s role in advancing sustainable, safe, secure, and smart shipping worldwide.

About the IMO Council
- The IMO Council is the executive body of the IMO between Assembly sessions.
- It consists of 40 elected members across three categories (A, B, C).
- India’s position ensures it has a strong voice in shaping international maritime policies.

This re-election not only boosts India’s maritime diplomacy but also reinforces its ambition to be a global leader in sustainable shipping and trade connectivity.