Debashis Mitra is a trailblazing leader and visionary expert, spearheading a revolution in the logistics industry. With his unwavering commitment to service and integrity, Debashis has been instrumental in bridging markets and empowering industries across India and worldwide. As the Founder & CEO of Behag Overseas, he has brought a remarkable transformation, growing a humble startup into a powerhouse of cross-border trade solutions. His unique mantra of “Service, Service, and Service” resonates throughout the organization, establishing Behag Overseas as a trusted partner in the logistics realm.
Visionary Leadership in Logistics Excellence
Debashis stands out as a visionary leader in the logistics industry, driven by a commitment to service and innovation. What sets him apart is his ability to foresee industry trends and adapt to changing customer needs. Under his guidance, Behag Overseas has established a solid presence in the market.
The company boasts an extensive network, with its own office in Kolkata and at various land customs ports along the Bangladesh and Bhutan borders. This enables the company to provide efficient road shipment services to these countries. Additionally, the company offers clearance services for sea and air shipments, including third-country shipments like Nepal.
With a strong team presence at all borders, the company ensures meticulous tracking and timely updates, enabling customers to stay informed about their shipments 24/7.
Driving Team Success at Behag Overseas
As a key member of Behag Overseas, Debashis’s responsibilities are multifaceted. He leads by example, embracing every task as a new experience and a labor of love. His team’s dedication is palpable; they often work late into the night and return to the office the next day with great enthusiasm.
Debashis’s approach is to take ownership of every responsibility, motivating his team to do the same. He works with other teammates in close connection, providing guidance, support, and encouragement to ensure they excel in their roles. His leadership style is akin to a coach, boosting team morale and resolving issues promptly.
Given the demanding nature of the logistics industry, Debashis recognized the significance of physical fitness. He makes it a point to prioritize his own fitness, knowing that his team works tirelessly, 7 days a week, 24/7.
Logistics: The Backbone of Business Growth and Innovation
Logistics plays a crucial role in driving business growth and innovation, serving as the backbone of modern civilization. Debashis recognized that logistics is a fundamental need, second to agriculture in importance. Without a robust logistics system, the development of civilization would be severely hindered. Modern industries in all sectors rely heavily on logistics to function efficiently. As a logistician, Debashis and his team take the initiative to plan and manage the entire supply chain management, ensuring seamless operations. By providing tailored solutions, they strive to make logistics more competitive in terms of rates, ultimately benefiting customers.
Overcoming Challenges as a Business Leader
Debashis’s journey is a testament to perseverance and teamwork. He began his career as a customs broker firm employee, earning Rs 2000 despite having a postgraduate degree. However, he earned an additional Rs 15,000 by coaching students. Despite facing criticisms and taunts, his parents and later his spouse supported his endeavors.
With his family’s support, Debashis turned challenges into opportunities. He obtained his own customs broker license and established offices in Kolkata and West Bengal’s land ports. As a first-generation businessman, he views challenges as valuable experiences that have polished him and his family, enabling them to face future obstacles with confidence.
A Career Shaped by Challenges and Teamwork
Debashis’s career is a story of perseverance and teamwork. From humble beginnings with a salary of Rs 2,000 in Kolkata, he has overcome numerous challenges and opportunities. With a humble background from a suburban area 100 km from Kolkata, he attributes his success to the collective efforts of his team.
Debashis believes that every day brings new challenges and opportunities. He humbly acknowledges that his company’s reputation is a result of teamwork, where every member plays a vital role.
Adapting to the Post-Pandemic Business Landscape
The pandemic has brought notable changes in the business world, and Debashis’s organization has adapted to stay ahead. One notable shift has been the widespread adoption of online platforms, with 90% of the documentation process becoming system-oriented. The change has been driven in part by the Government of India’s initiatives. The clearance process has become more efficient, with documentation being appraised and assessed on a PAN-India basis. While this has introduced new challenges, it has also made the import and export business process smarter, more tech-friendly, and trade-friendly.
From Beginnings to Leadership
Debashis’s journey showcases his perseverance and humility. He never imagined he would achieve his current level of success. Despite his achievements, he remains grounded, preferring to travel by local train, bus, and auto and eating at street food stalls.
Debashis attributes his success to his drive and mantra: “miles to go before I sleep. “He does not consider himself a successful man but instead someone who is working towards his objective.
Achieving Balance in Life
Debashis’s life is a testament to finding balance between personal and professional responsibilities. With “work & work” being the organization’s motto, he focuses on his family and makes time for his loved ones. Despite his busy schedule, he pursues his passions, including reading, listening to classical music and even ironing his family’s clothes.
Debashis’s daily routine is filled with purpose and joy. He enjoys grocery shopping for his family and shares his expertise as a guest faculty member at NIFT, Kolkata, and Dr. BC Roy Academy of Professional Courses.
Essential Leadership Qualities
Debashis believes that effective leadership is about humility and teamwork. A true leader leads by example, getting involved with their team members and treating them as equals. This approach is rooted in India’s cultural heritage, which focuses on humility and down-to-earth values.
Debashis finds inspiration in the Bhagavad Gita, which he believes offers valuable lessons on leadership. He recommends that everyone, especially leaders, study the Gita regularly to gain insights into effective leadership, personal growth, and spiritual development.
Achievements and Future Aspirations
Debashis takes pride in being able to support 20-25 families through his business. In today’s India, he believes that creating employment opportunities is a significant achievement, and he feels fortunate to be an employer.
Looking ahead, Debashis aims to expand his business into new sectors, including the agri-based manufacturing industry and travel. Over the next five years, he plans to grow his manufacturing sector, diversifying his business and establishing a strong presence in these new industries while continuing to build on his logistics business.
Keys to Success for Aspiring Business Leaders
Debashis’ advice for young entrepreneurs is to focus on performance and hard work. There is no easy way to success, and dedication is key. He believes that working hard every day is essential for growth, not just for personal success but also for the country’s growth. By adopting the mantra of ‘work is worship,” young Indians can set themselves up for success.