Vijay Kumar takes over as Shipping Secretary following Ramachandran’s retirement

By Admin

03 Oct, 2025

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways witnessed a significant leadership transition on October 1, 2025, as Vijay Kumar (IAS: 1992: AGMUT) officially took charge as the new Secretary. He succeeds T.K. Ramachandran (IAS: 1991: TN), who retired on September 30, 2025, after completing his distinguished tenure in the ministry.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet had approved Kumar’s appointment earlier on August 22, 2025, naming him as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to ensure a seamless handover of responsibilities. This smooth transition highlights the government’s emphasis on continuity in steering key infrastructure sectors.

Kumar brings with him a wealth of administrative and maritime expertise. Prior to this appointment, he served as Chairman of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), where he played a crucial role in strengthening and regulating India’s inland water transport system. His work in advancing inland waterways development has laid a strong foundation for his new role at the ministry.

His elevation to Shipping Secretary reflects the government’s increasing focus on deploying domain specialists in critical leadership positions. With flagship initiatives like the Sagarmala projects and the expansion of inland water transport high on the national agenda, Kumar’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for India’s maritime sector.

As the new Shipping Secretary, Kumar is expected to guide the ministry’s vision of transforming India into a global maritime hub, boosting coastal and inland connectivity, and ensuring sustainable growth across the ports and shipping ecosystem. His experience in infrastructure planning and waterway development positions him as a key driver of the next phase of maritime reforms.

The maritime community now looks forward to his leadership in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, as India strengthens its position in global trade and shipping.