India has been re-elected to the prestigious Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for the 2026-27 biennium with the highest number of votes in Category B, which comprises 10 nations having the largest interest in international seaborne trade.
In elections held on Friday during the 34th session of the IMO Assembly in London, India secured 154 votes out of 169 valid votes cast, topping the category for the second consecutive biennium.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal termed the outcome a “proud moment” for the country’s maritime sector and said the resounding mandate reflected the global community’s trust in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a safe, secure and sustainable maritime ecosystem.
“This achievement reaffirms the international community’s strong confidence in India’s constructive leadership in global shipping and validates the success of sustained reforms and forward-looking initiatives under the Prime Minister’s maritime growth agenda,” the Minister said.
The IMO Council, the executive organ of the 175-member UN specialised agency, has 40 members divided into three categories. Category B represents countries with the largest interest in international seaborne trade.
India’s strong performance comes weeks after Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India Maritime Week 2025, which witnessed participation from over 100 countries.
The re-election is seen as a recognition of India’s growing stature in global maritime affairs and its commitment to the Amrit Kaal Maritime Vision 2047, steered by Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Minister of State Shantanu Thakur.
On the sidelines of the IMO Assembly, the Indian delegation held discussions with several member states, international organisations and IMO officials to explore deeper cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
With rising shipbuilding, port modernisation and green shipping initiatives, India continues to strengthen its position as a key player in the global maritime ecosystem.