Rajesh Gopalakrishnan is set to take over as the next Director (Technical) of Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), a Central Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. His selection was recommended by the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) on May 22, 2025.
Mr Gopalakrishnan currently serves as Executive Director (Ship Repair) at CSL and brings with him a deep understanding of ship repair operations. He was chosen from a pool of 11 candidates, including senior officials from within CSL and one nominee from the Shipping Corporation of India. Noteworthy contenders for the role included Dr. S. Harikrishnan, Executive Director (Ship Building); Mr. Eldho John, Chief General Manager (Technical); and Mr. Shiraz Villantekathu Puthiyapurayil, Chief General Manager (Planning, Project Management & Strategy).
In a parallel development on the same day, the PESB panel also recommended Dr. S. Harikrishnan for the post of Director (Operations) at CSL.
As Director (Technical), Mr. Gopalakrishnan will be a Board-level executive, reporting to the Chairman and Managing Director of the company. He will be responsible for overseeing all technical departments, with a strong focus on the ship repair division. His portfolio will include infrastructure augmentation, facility maintenance, and ensuring the timely and cost-effective completion of ship repair projects in line with contractual quality standards. He will also lead commercial and operational strategies to further strengthen CSL’s ship repair business.
His appointment reflects CSL’s continued focus on technical excellence and operational efficiency in India’s growing shipbuilding and ship repair sector.
Cochin Shipyard Limited
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) is one of India’s premier shipbuilding and ship repair public sector undertakings, operating under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. Headquartered in Kochi, Kerala, CSL has earned a strong reputation for delivering high-quality vessels and comprehensive repair services for a wide range of clients, including the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and international commercial shipping companies.