India has been re-elected to the Council of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
India was elected to the IMO council under Category 'B' at the 29th session of the Assembly of the IMO held in London yesterday, the Shipping Ministry said in a release.
IMO Assembly's session is being held at IMO headquarters London from November 23 to December 2, 2015.
India ranks amongst the top twenty ship owning countries of the world in terms of Gross Tonnage as well as Deadweight. Indian Shipping tonnage has been growing steadily and it is about 10.38 Million GT now, with 1,210 ships under its flag for both the international voyages and coastal voyages.
"This supports India's status as one of the countries with the largest interest in international seaborne trade," the statement said.
India has been one of the earliest members of the IMO, having ratified its Convention and joined it as a member-state in the year 1959.
The IMO Council plays a crucial role in deciding various matters in relation to global shipping industry, including its work programme strategy and budget. IMO Council consists of 40 member countries who are elected by the IMO Assembly.
