LONDON : Capt. Harinder Singh, Nautical Surveyor and Deputy Director General (Technical), Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA), Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India, has been elected as a member of the Joint Audit Body of the 1992 Fund and the Supplementary Fund of the International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds (IOPC Funds). He has also been appointed Vice-Chair of the Body.
The election took place on October 22, 2026, during the 31st session of the 1992 Fund Assembly in London. Eight candidates nominated by Member States contested six available seats, making the election an important milestone in India’s continued engagement with international maritime governance.
The Joint Audit Body plays a critical role in ensuring independent oversight of the Funds’ financial reporting, internal control systems and risk management processes. Its work supports transparency, accountability and sound governance in the administration of international compensation mechanisms for oil pollution damage.
Capt. Singh’s election continues India’s representation on the Joint Audit Body, while his appointment as Vice-Chair marks the second occasion on which an Indian nominee has held this position. The development underscores India’s growing contribution to international maritime institutions and its commitment to strengthening the global framework for oil pollution liability and compensation.
The achievement also reflects the expertise of Indian maritime professionals and the country’s active participation in international efforts to promote responsible shipping practices, effective maritime governance and robust mechanisms for addressing marine pollution incidents.
The appointment marks a significant recognition of India’s role in advancing transparency, accountability and cooperation within the international maritime sector.
