'Leadership is About Service': An Exclusive Interview with James P. Varkey
In a world driven by ambition and personal gain, James P. Varkey stands out as a rare example of a leader whose life has been guided by duty, integrity, and service. From his early days as a naval commando to his tenure in India's elite intelligence agency, and now as Managing Director of the Varkey Group, Varkey's journey reflects an unwavering commitment to making a difference.
In an exclusive interview, he speaks candidly about the moments that defined him and the values that continue to guide his path.
From the Frontlines to the Intelligence Network
'It all started with a sense of duty,' Varkey says, recalling his enlistment in the Indian Navy in 2000. Trained as a MARCOS commando, one of India's most elite special forces units, he spent seven formative years in service—years that taught him discipline, courage, and leadership under pressure.
In 2007, he transitioned into a highly secretive role in the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), India's foreign intelligence agency. 'In R&AW, every mission was critical. It wasn't about just gathering intelligence—it was about preventing loss of life and maintaining national security,' he explains. Varkey's operations spanned multiple high-risk assignments, including overseas deployments.
One of his most defining moments came during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, where, as part of the MARCOS unit, he helped rescue 185 civilians before NSG commandos took over. 'That night remains etched in my memory,' he says. 'The lives we saved made every second worth it.'
From Covert Operations to Corporate Strategy
Despite his demanding fieldwork, Varkey remained rooted in his family's business legacy. 'My family was involved in wholesale trade and FMCG for over three decades. I always knew I would return to that world,' he says.
In 2007, alongside his intelligence service, he took charge of the Varkey Group INDIA as Managing Director. Under his leadership, the company diversified beyond retail into real estate, EPC, and international trade. 'Business, like intelligence work, is about risk management, strategy, and people,' he notes.
His ability to make critical decisions under pressure helped scale the business to an international platform, generating employment and forging strong cross-border partnerships.
A Life Anchored in Family
Beyond the battlefield and boardroom, Varkey finds his greatest strength in his family. 'My wife Anu is my partner in every sense, and our daughters Nila and Norah are my biggest inspirations,' he shares. 'They keep me grounded and remind me of what really matters.'
He credits his upbringing and family values for shaping his commitment to humility, empathy, and responsibility.
Philanthropy as a Core Mission
Perhaps one of the most admirable chapters of his life is his philanthropic commitment. In 2012, Varkey pledged 70% of his personal wealth to charitable causes, focusing on orphaned children, education, and under-resourced communities in India, Africa, the UAE, and the U.S.
'This is not charity—it's my duty,' he says. 'My parents led by example, helping others quietly. I just built on their values.'
His foundation has helped over 68,000 orphaned children access education, healthcare, and shelter. 'Education is the tool that changes futures. If I can give a child that chance, I've done something right,' he reflects.
Staying Resilient Amid Risk
Having lived in high-risk zones and operated in politically volatile regions, what kept Varkey going?
'Faith, family, and focus,' he answers simply. 'Whether you're in the shadows of intelligence or the spotlight of business, your principles should not change. Integrity is non-negotiable.'
He lives by one guiding philosophy: Add value wherever you go.
Looking to the Future
Today, Varkey continues to mentor young entrepreneurs, advise global companies, and consult on strategic national interests. Though no longer in active intelligence roles, he remains deeply connected to missions that support India's development and security.
'My goal now is to build a legacy that reflects character, not just success,' he says. 'I want my daughters to see that a life of service is a life well-lived.'
The Mark of True Leadership
From storming terrorist-occupied buildings to building multinational companies, James P. Varkey's life is an embodiment of leadership through service. His story is not just about action—it's about purpose.
In an age where headlines often celebrate power and wealth, Varkey reminds us that the highest form of leadership is serving others with courage, humility, and a vision for the greater good.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Works on Sankar Vilas flyover to begin despite pending land issues
Guntur: Notwithstanding the pending legal issues with regard to land acquisition, the district administration has decided to kick-start the works on the prestigious Sankar Vilas flyover. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The R&B department has been given a go ahead by the district collector to launch the works from Monday. The first phase of the four-lane rail over bridge (ROB) will be launched from AC college junction (East constituency). The Union govt has granted Rs 98 crore to take up the long-pending flyover project almost eight months ago. Curiously, the Guntur Municipal Corporation (GMC) could not complete land acquisition due to strong resistance from the owners of commercial properties on Brodipet main road. About 50 property owners approached the court and got stay orders on acquisition of their properties until payment of compensation under the land acquisition Act. However, GMC had been negotiating them to accept the transferable development rights (TDR) bonds as it did not have sufficient funds to give the compensation in cash. The GMC estimated that it would require at least Rs 50 crore to clear the compensation through land acquisition Act. While the property owners have been waiting for the relief, district administration gave them a shocker by deciding to launch the work. Sources said that this is a strategic attempt to push the property owners, who refused to budge and accept the TDR bonds as compensation, into a corner. Sources said that the main road on both the sides of existing ROB will be closed for vehicular movement from Monday and R&B department will start bringing down the existing flyover before laying the pillars for the new obe.
The Hindu
6 hours ago
- The Hindu
Speed up work on ongoing R&B projects: Komatireddy
Hyderabad Roads & Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy has directed officials to accelerate ongoing construction works under the R&B Department, especially those nearing completion and ready for public use. The Minister said that the R&B Department carries major responsibilities and urged officers to prioritise and finish critical infrastructure projects swiftly. Mr. Venkat Reddy reviewed the progress of works taken up by the department with senior officials on Sunday. The Minister inquired about the status of pending Integrated District Office Complexes (IDOCs) in Adilabad, Warangal, Mulugu, Narayanpet and Karimnagar districts. Officials brought to his notice the issue of pending payment of bills. He wanted officials to ensure completion of IDOCs in Warangal and Mulugu, which were in final stages, so that they were kept ready for inauguration. Referring to the rail-over-bridges, he specifically wanted the completion of Madhavnagar ROB in Nizamabad at the earliest. Officials were directed to focus on the construction of medical colleges and TIMS that were in the final stages of completion. Emphasising the need for quality road infrastructure, he cited Greater Hyderabad, which witnessed movement of over 91 lakh vehicles every day calling for the need for high quality road infrastructure in both urban and rural parts of the State. The Minister assured that he would discuss and resolve pending bills of contractors and work agencies with Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka.
New Indian Express
a day ago
- New Indian Express
‘Andhra Pradesh poised to be logistics gateway of South Asia': Minister BC Janardhan Reddy
VIJAYAWADA: Minister for R&B, Infrastructure and Investments BC Janardhan Reddy has said Andhra Pradesh is set to redefine its role as the logistics gateway of South Asia. Speaking at the CII Ports and Logistics Conference on 'Building Andhra Pradesh - The East Coast Logistics Capital of India' in Visakhapatnam on Friday, he said the government has laid emphasis on strengthening ports and road infrastructure recognising that robust logistics is the engine for industrial growth and regional prosperity. 'As India approaches its centennial year of Independence, Andhra Pradesh is guided by the Swarna Andhra @2047 Vision. Our goal is to become a high-growth, innovation-driven economy, targeting $2.4 trillion GSDP, and $42,000 per capita income by 2047. This vision ensures our growth is inclusive, sustainable, and globally competitive,' Janardhan Reddy said.
