New Delhi: India has been re-elected to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) council for the 2026-27 biennium with the highest vote tally in category B, a result that strengthens the country’s influence in shaping global maritime policy and signals growing international confidence in India’s leadership in seaborne trade, maritime safety and green shipping.
By securing 154 out of 169 valid votes during the elections held on Friday at the 34th IMO assembly in London, India has reinforced its position among the 10 countries with the largest interest in international seaborne trade.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal described the victory as a proud moment for the maritime sector, noting that the resounding mandate reflects global trust in the government’s vision for a safe, secure and sustainable maritime domain. He added that the achievement validates the reforms and forward-looking initiatives implemented in recent years to expand India’s maritime capabilities.
This marks the second consecutive biennium in which India has topped the vote count in category B, underlining continuity in its constructive role in the IMO council. The election result follows shortly after the successful organisation of India Maritime Week 2025, which was inaugurated by the Prime Minister and saw participation from over 100 countries, a development viewed as an important boost to India’s maritime diplomacy.
The IMO council, comprising 40 elected members across three categories, serves as the executive body of the organisation between assembly sessions and is responsible for developing and overseeing global maritime regulatory frameworks. During the assembly, the Indian delegation engaged with several countries, international organisations and IMO officials on cooperation in areas of shared interest.
With the renewed mandate, India is expected to further push its agenda of sustainable, safe, secure and smart shipping while contributing to the growth of the global maritime ecosystem. The government has stated that the achievement reflects India’s strengthening role in international seaborne trade and maritime governance.