India Re-elected to ICAO Council with Stronger Mandate
NEW DELHI: India has been re-elected to the council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) for the 2025-2028 term, achieving a “stronger mandate” during the elections held on September 27, 2025, at the 42nd ICAO assembly session in Montreal. This election saw India securing more votes compared to the previous polls in 2022.
Union Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated, “Proud to share that India has been re-elected to the ICAO council with its highest-ever mandate for the 2025–28 term. Global support for India’s membership reflects our rising stature under the leadership of PM Modi and the growing confidence in India’s commitment to aviation safety, security, and sustainability.” Naidu noted the strong interest from global stakeholders in India’s aviation sector, particularly in areas such as aircraft component manufacturing, maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO), as well as skill development.
Prior to the ICAO assembly, Naidu hosted a reception for diplomats in New Delhi on September 2, where he sought support from member states for India’s candidacy for re-election.
For its new term, India has reaffirmed its dedication to several key areas, including strengthening international aviation safety, security, and sustainability, promoting equitable growth in air connectivity, advancing technology and innovation, and supporting ICAO’s “No Country Left Behind” initiative, according to a government statement.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the nation’s commitment to the objectives of ICAO through constant engagement with other member states. The ministry’s diplomatic outreach played a crucial role in bolstering India’s campaign for the ICAO Council elections. The Indian representative at ICAO headquarters also actively sought support for India’s re-election.
During his visit to Montreal, Naidu engaged in bilateral meetings with representatives of other member states and interacted with stakeholders in the global aviation industry. Recognized as one of the fastest-growing aviation markets worldwide, India has garnered significant interest from international players in sectors like aircraft component manufacturing, MRO, and skills training.
As a founding member of ICAO since 1944, India has maintained an uninterrupted presence on the council for 81 years. The country continues to play a pivotal role in advancing ICAO’s mission to ensure safe, secure, sustainable, and gender-inclusive international civil aviation. India actively contributes to policy development, regulatory frameworks, and international aviation standards.
The ICAO Assembly convenes every three years and serves as the organization’s sovereign body, composed of all 193 signatory states to the Chicago Convention. The 36-member ICAO Council, elected by the member states during the assembly, acts as the governing body for a three-year term.
