At the IMO Council meet, India calls for safer seas and shares strides in boosting gender diversity in the maritime sector.
At the 134th session of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council, India took centre stage, firmly pushing for stronger safety protocols in container shipping and championing gender inclusivity in the maritime world.
Leading the Indian delegation, T.K. Ramachandran, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, delivered a powerful statement on day one of the session, raising alarms over recent maritime incidents involving foreign-flagged container vessels in Indian waters.
India expressed concern over ships carrying undeclared hazardous cargo and suffering from structural and stability issues, calling these not just operational lapses, but serious threats to life at sea. The country urged the IMO to launch global investigations into such incidents and conduct a thorough review of current safety standards for container shipping.
“Safety at sea cannot be compromised,” India stated, emphasising the need for stricter international regulations for lithium-ion batteries and other IMDG cargo, including how they’re packed, declared, and monitored.
India also highlighted the proactive role played by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, who have consistently responded to emergencies in the region, showcasing India’s commitment to maritime security.
Gender Equality: “Sagar Mein Samman” takes the global stage
India didn’t stop at safety; it also turned the spotlight on gender equality. During the Council discussions, the Indian delegation showcased its flagship initiative Sagar Mein Samman (Honour at Sea), launched in November 2024 by the Directorate General of Shipping.
This initiative aims to empower women across the maritime ecosystem, from cadets to captains, creating safer and more respectful working environments on board and ashore. It aligns closely with India’s Vision@2047 and the IMO’s Gender Inclusion Strategy.
The results are already speaking volumes. India proudly reported a 650% rise in the number of Indian women seafarers, a remarkable achievement that drew praise from the global maritime community.
“India believes inclusive development is not a choice; it’s a necessity,” said a senior Indian official during the session.
Standing tall for safer, greener, more equitable seas
Reaffirming its commitment to IMO’s broader goals of maritime safety, environmental protection, and sustainable growth, India called for collaborative global efforts to modernise safety norms and promote best practices worldwide.
India’s dual message, safer ships and inclusive seas, landed strongly at the IMO Council, showcasing a country ready to shape the future of global maritime policy with responsibility, innovation, and humanity.
Source: PIB
