Goa Shipyard Limited has announced that Nagesh Das Pai has officially assumed charge as Director (Corporate Planning, Projects & Business Development) with effect from March 25, 2026.
The appointment marks a significant internal leadership elevation for the defence shipbuilding public sector enterprise, with Pai joining the board after nearly three decades of service within the organisation.
Selected by PESB from 12 candidates
Pai was recommended for the board-level post by the Public Enterprises Selection Board during its selection meeting held on December 10, 2025.
He was selected from a pool of 12 candidates, reflecting strong institutional confidence in his technical and leadership credentials.
Joined Goa Shipyard as Graduate Engineer Trainee in 1998
Pai began his professional journey at Goa Shipyard on January 15, 1998, when he joined as a Graduate Engineer Trainee.
Over the past 27 years, he has steadily risen through multiple technical and managerial roles across the organisation.
His appointment to the board is seen as recognition of his long institutional experience and project leadership in India’s defence shipbuilding sector.
Held key production leadership role before board appointment
Before taking over the new assignment, Pai served as General Manager (Production – Navy Projects).
In that role, he supervised major naval construction programmes and contributed significantly to the execution of high-value shipbuilding projects.
Key role in defence shipbuilding and project execution
During his tenure, Pai has contributed to:
- strengthening shipbuilding infrastructure
- expanding production capacity
- improving ship repair capabilities
- enhancing operational efficiency
- ensuring timely execution of defence projects
His work has supported delivery schedules for projects involving the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard.
Strong academic and technical background
Pai brings a combination of:
- engineering expertise
- management training
- operations capability
- strategic planning experience
This blend is considered critical for Goa Shipyard’s current expansion and diversification plans.
Expected to drive strategic growth and business development
In his new role as Director (CPP&BD), Pai will oversee:
- corporate planning
- project strategy
- business development
- diversification initiatives
- long-term expansion planning
The role is also expected to support Goa Shipyard’s contribution to India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat defence manufacturing objectives.
Goa Shipyard expresses confidence in new leadership
In a statement shared publicly, Goa Shipyard said it expects Pai’s leadership to accelerate:
- strategic growth
- project execution
- business expansion
- global outreach initiatives
The company sees his appointment as important for strengthening its future shipbuilding and defence export ambitions.
About Goa Shipyard Limited
Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) is a premier public sector shipbuilding company under the Ministry of Defence, specializing in the design, construction, and repair of naval and coast guard vessels. With decades of experience in defence shipbuilding, GSL plays a key role in supporting India’s maritime security and defence preparedness while contributing to the nation’s shipbuilding capabilities.
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