India Re-Elected to IMO Council with Highest Votes

India achieved a major diplomatic and maritime milestone on November 28, 2025, as it was re-elected to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council in Category B, securing 154 out of 169 valid votes — the highest vote tally in its category. This marks India’s second consecutive term as the top-voted nation in Category B, solidifying its growing role as a global maritime power. The election took place during the 34th IMO Assembly held in London, and India’s performance reinforces its emergence as a policy influencer in international shipping, backed by the Amrit Kaal Maritime Vision 2047.

What is the IMO Council and Category B?

The IMO Council is the executive arm of the International Maritime Organization, responsible for supervising the organization’s work between sessions of the IMO Assembly.

The Council is divided into three categories,

• Category A: Countries with the largest interest in providing international shipping services
• Category B: Countries with the largest interest in international seaborne trade
• Category C: Countries with special interests in maritime transport or navigation

India serves in Category B, alongside major trading powers such as Germany, France, Canada, UAE, Australia, Spain, Sweden, Netherlands, and Brazil.

India Tops Category B: A Diplomatic and Maritime Feat

India’s resounding victory — 154 out of 169 votes — reflects the global maritime community’s confidence in India’s constructive and leadership role in shaping the future of maritime trade, sustainability, and safety.

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal described the result as a “powerful affirmation” of Prime Minister Modi’s maritime vision, which is guiding India toward becoming a trusted and transformative voice in global shipping.

He highlighted that the win showcases India’s work on,

• Maritime safety and seafarer welfare
• Decarbonisation and sustainability in shipping
• Technological integration and digital shipping systems
• Port-led development and blue economy

Role of Amrit Kaal Maritime Vision 2047

The re-election aligns closely with India’s long-term maritime strategy, the Amrit Kaal Maritime Vision 2047, a blueprint to make India a globally competitive maritime hub by the 100th year of independence.

Guided by PM Modi and led by ministers Sonowal and Shantanu Thakur, this vision aims to,

• Expand green shipping and sustainable practices
• Modernize port logistics and shipbuilding infrastructure
• Enhance global maritime diplomacy and partnerships
• Develop smart and resilient supply chains
• India’s continued prominence at the IMO is viewed as a validation of the success and credibility of this long-term vision.

Maritime Diplomacy and Global Engagement

On the sidelines of the IMO Assembly, the Indian delegation held multiple bilateral and multilateral meetings with key maritime nations and organizations. The discussions focused on,

Green maritime collaboration

• Digitalisation in shipping
• Seafarer training and welfare
• Infrastructure partnerships for ports and logistics

India also recently hosted the India Maritime Week 2025, inaugurated by PM Modi, which saw participation from over 100 countries. The event showcased India’s growing maritime capabilities and served as a platform for technology adoption, investment, and security cooperation.

Strategic Importance for India and the World

India’s re-election to the IMO Council is not just symbolic; it provides,

• A seat at the decision-making table for international maritime rules
• Influence over emerging norms on climate, automation, and trade logistics
• Opportunities to align global policies with developing country perspectives
• Recognition of India’s expanding role in global supply chain stability

In a time of rapid change in global shipping — driven by climate imperatives, energy transition, and digital transformation — India’s proactive maritime diplomacy enhances its ability to shape future frameworks.

Key Takeaways

• Event: Re-election to IMO Council, Category B
• Date of Election: November 28, 2025
• Location: 34th IMO Assembly, London
• Votes Secured: 154 out of 169 (highest in category)
• Category B Members: Includes Germany, France, Canada, UAE, Australia, Spain, Sweden, Netherlands, Brazil
• Council Role: Executive body of IMO, oversees maritime policy-making
• India’s Maritime Strategy: Amrit Kaal Maritime Vision 2047