Charting the Course Shri Shyam Jagannathan's Vision for Indian Maritime Excellence and Seafarer Empowerment

Second part of the three-part series

- Compiled by Capt. Ramji S Krishnan Sloan Fellow, London Business School

COMPREHENSIVE EXPOSITION OF TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP, GUIDANCE, AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

During a significant Seafarer India online seminar on17 Apr 2025, Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping (DGS), delivered a compelling and multi-layered address aimed at maritime cadets, second mates, and young seafarers. His remarks masterfully blended innovative DGS initiatives for seafarer welfare and maritime sector modernization with practical career advice, poignant personal anecdotes from his 28-year IAS journey, and a forward-looking vision for Indian seafarers in a dynamic global industry. This exposition offers an enhanced analysis of his contributions, guidance, and enduring message. This is the second part of the two-part series of his exposition on various issues related to cadets, merchant marine, policy making etc.

B. RESILIENCE AND PERSISTENCE: FORGING STRENGTH FROM FAILURE

The cornerstone of Shri Jagannathan’s motivational advice was his deeply personal and candid recounting of his UPSC examination journey. This was not merely an anecdote but a profound illustration of resilience:

The Initial Blow and Father's Disappointment:

He vividly described the emotional impact of his first attempt's result (rank 563). His father, an army officer embodying discipline, and high expectations, initially reacted with sharp disappointment, dismissing the result ("This is all I expected out of you") and physically discarding the newspaper listing the results. This moment captured a potential low point many aspirants face - confronting perceived failure and external judgment.

Finding the Spark - The Power of Self-Verification: