“India’s success at IMO is proof of PM Narendra Modi ji’s maritime vision:” Sarbananda Sonowal

The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal described the outcome as a major endorsement of India’s growing global maritime influence. “India’s success at IMO is a proof to our dynamic Prime Minister Narendra Modiji’s maritime vision,” said Shri Sarbananda Sonowal.

“This is a proud moment for India’s maritime sector and for our nation. Under the visionary and transformative leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, India has once again been re-elected to the IMO Council for the 2026–27 term with the highest vote tally in Category B,” Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said. “This exceptional mandate from the global community is a powerful affirmation of Prime Minister Modi ji’s unwavering commitment to building a safe, secure, efficient and green maritime domain. His leadership has placed India firmly at the forefront of global maritime progress and positioned the country as a trusted voice in shaping the future of international shipping.”… Sarbananda Sonowal added that the result reflects the faith the global maritime fraternity places

India’s continued prominence at the IMO marks the second consecutive biennium in which the country has secured the highest number of votes in Category B. Officials described the achievement as a milestone in advancing the Amrit Kaal Maritime Vision 2047 — a long-term blueprint to transform India into a globally competitive maritime hub. The initiative is guided by Modi and led by Sonowal along with Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shantanu Thakur.

The IMO Council comprises 40 elected member states divided among three categories and functions as the organisation’s executive body between assembly sessions. On the sidelines of the Assembly, the Indian delegation conducted bilateral and multilateral meetings with several nations, international maritime associations and IMO officials to expand partnerships in maritime safety, maritime digitalisation, green shipping, seafarer welfare and port development…Industry observers say India’s strong performance positions it as a key influencer in global maritime rule-making and policy development, particularly at a time when the sector is undergoing major transitions driven by sustainability and technology.

India continues to enhance its role in the global maritime ecosystem by advancing initiatives aimed at environmentally responsible shipping, improving maritime security infrastructure, modernising port logistics, and developing smart and resilient supply chains.

The government has said it remains committed to strengthening India’s leadership role in collaborative maritime governance and contributing to the growth and stability of global trade