New Delhi: In a key development under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Mr. Venkatesapathy S, IAS, Joint Secretary in the MoPSW, has been appointed as the Part-time Official (Nominee) Director on the Board of Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL). The appointment is effective from August 7, 2025, and comes in place of Mr. Rajesh Kumar Sinha, IAS, the former Additional Secretary of the Ministry.
This decision has been made by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, with the appointment set to continue until further orders.
Experienced Administrator with Strong Maritime and Governance Background
Mr. Venkatesapathy S is a 2009-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre and currently serves as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India.
A graduate in Production Engineering from Madras Institute of Technology, Anna University, he brings a deep understanding of both technical and administrative disciplines vital for maritime infrastructure and public sector governance.
Diverse Experience Across Key Government Portfolios
During his distinguished administrative career, Mr. Venkatesapathy has held several significant posts in the Government of Kerala, including:
- Sub Collector in Idukki, Devikulam, and Kasargod
- Secretary, Thiruvananthapuram Corporation
- Managing Director, Supplyco
- District Collector, Malappuram and Thiruvananthapuram
- Director, Fisheries Department
- Managing Director, Kerala Water Authority
These roles reflect a strong background in both urban governance and resource management.
Strategic Role in Maritime Sector
Prior to his elevation as Joint Secretary, Mr. Venkatesapathy was on central deputation as Director (Shipping) in the Ministry. He also currently serves as Government Nominee Director in several key maritime and logistics entities:
- Shipping Corporation of India Ltd (SCI)
- Shipping Corporation of India Land and Assets Ltd (SCILAL)
- Sagarmala Finance Corporation Ltd (SFCL)
His growing involvement in the maritime sector positions him as a key strategic leader in the government’s port-led development and shipping modernization efforts.
Strengthening the Board of Cochin Shipyard Ltd
With his appointment to the Board of Directors at Cochin Shipyard Ltd, Mr. Venkatesapathy S is expected to bring his governance expertise, policy insight, and sectoral knowledge to help CSL navigate its ongoing shipbuilding and defense manufacturing projects, as well as expansion strategies.
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About Cochin Shipyard Limited
Cochin Shipyard Limited is India’s largest shipbuilding and maintenance facility, headquartered in Kochi, Kerala. Established in 1972, CSL is a Miniratna Category-I Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The company specializes in building and repairing a wide range of vessels including defense ships, offshore platforms, and commercial ships. CSL plays a pivotal role in India’s maritime infrastructure development and contributes significantly to the nation’s defence preparedness through strategic contracts with the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.
