India re-elected to the Council of the International Maritime Organization
In the recent elections for the 2024-25 biennium at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) assembly, India secured its re-election to the IMO council, receiving the highest number of votes. The Ministry of Shipping and Waterways announced this achievement, placing India among the top 10 states with "the largest interest in international seaborne trade". Other countries in this category include Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the UAE.
The IMO council, serving as the executive organ of the IMO, is tasked with supervising the organization's activities under the assembly's authority. During intervals between assembly sessions, the council handles its functions, excluding the ability to make recommendations to governments on maritime safety and pollution prevention.
Sarbananda Sonowal, the Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, expressed gratitude for the international community's support, emphasizing that the substantial votes reflect the government's commitment to strengthening India's contributions to global maritime operations.
Highlighting the IMO's crucial role as the principal authority regulating the maritime industry, an official from the ministry underscored its significance in supporting worldwide trade, transportation, and marine activities. The ministry also disclosed India's strategic goals under the MIV 2030, aiming to bolster representation at the IMO by appointing permanent representatives. Additionally, the proposal suggests nominating at least two qualified candidates for the Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme at the IMO to enhance India's maritime expertise.
The JPO Programme, established within the United Nations, seeks to provide young professionals with hands-on experience in international cooperation under the guidance of specialists, contributing to the advancement of their respective nation’s mand
