India has been re-elected to the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in Category B—reserved for countries with the largest interest in international seaborne trade—securing the highest number of votes among all contenders in the group. India received 154 out of 169 valid votes during the elections held on 28 November 2025 at the 34th Session of the IMO Assembly in London.
Expressing his delight, Hon’ble Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said: “A proud moment for India’s maritime sector! India has been re-elected to the IMO Council for the 2026–27 biennium with the highest tally of votes in the category of countries with the largest interest in international seaborne trade.
This resounding mandate reaffirms the global community’s trust in Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji’s vision for a safe, secure and green maritime domain.”
India’s strong vote tally underscores the global community’s confidence in the country’s constructive and influential role in international shipping. It also reflects the success of the Government of India’s sustained reforms and forward-looking initiatives aimed at strengthening the maritime sector under the Prime Minister’s vision.
The re-election comes on the heels of the successful India Maritime Week 2025, inaugurated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, which witnessed participation from more than 100 countries—further demonstrating India’s growing leadership in the global maritime ecosystem.
The IMO Council, comprising 40 elected member states across three categories, serves as the executive arm of the organization between Assembly sessions. On the sidelines of the 34th Assembly, the Indian delegation held discussions with several member nations, international organizations, and IMO officials to deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
This marks the second consecutive biennium in which India has topped Category B voting—reinforcing its commitment to the Amrit Kaal Maritime Vision 2047, guided by the Hon’ble Prime Minister and led by Shri Sarbananda Sonowal along with the Hon’ble Minister of State Shri Shantanu Thakur.
With continued emphasis on sustainable, safe, secure, and smart shipping, India is steadily enhancing its global maritime stature and contributing to the growth and resilience of the international maritime community.
