India actively participated in the 134th IMO Council Session in London and raised major concerns related to maritime safety and gender equality in shipping.
About IMO
- A UN agency formed in 1958 to regulate international shipping.
- Headquartered in London, with 176 members.
- Focuses on safety, environmental protection, and legal regulations at sea.
India’s Key Interventions
Maritime Safety & Accident Investigations
- India flagged two major shipping accidents off the Kerala coast: MSC ELSA 3 (sank in May 2025). WAN HAI 503 (fire in June 2025).
- Requested IMO to: Investigate such incidents globally. Update safety rules for dangerous cargo, especially lithium-ion batteries.
Emergency Response Standardisation
- Proposed global uniform protocols for handling sea emergencies.
- Emphasised best practices to improve cargo ship safety.
"Sagar Mein Samman" Initiative
- Promotes safe and inclusive workplaces at sea.
- India reported 650% rise in women seafarers.
- Aims to increase female participation in maritime careers.
Relevant Laws
- MARPOL (1973): Controls pollution from ships.
- Merchant Shipping Act (1958): Allows India to act against unsafe ships.
Way Ahead
- Use AI & blockchain for cargo safety.
- Build global maritime investigation mechanisms.
- Extend India’s gender inclusion model globally.
- Train developing nations in IMO safety standards.
