In a move aimed at ensuring continuity in India’s maritime governance, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved a two-year extension of the central deputation tenure of Shyam Jagannathan, allowing him to continue as Director General of Shipping until June 2028.
A 1997-batch IAS officer of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, Jagannathan has been leading the Directorate General of Shipping under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways since 2023. During his tenure, he has played a significant role in advancing maritime reforms, strengthening regulatory frameworks, promoting digitalisation, and supporting India’s efforts to modernise its shipping sector.
The extension comes at a crucial time as India pursues ambitious initiatives under Maritime India Vision 2030 and its broader goal of emerging as a global maritime hub. Industry stakeholders view the decision as a step that will provide policy continuity and sustained momentum to ongoing reforms in shipping, seafarer welfare, maritime training, and green shipping initiatives.
Jagannathan has also been closely associated with efforts to enhance India’s maritime administration, streamline regulatory processes, and strengthen the country’s engagement with international maritime bodies, positioning India for greater competitiveness in the global shipping landscape.