Ayodhya, September 2: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which manages the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, has appointed retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra as its first full-time Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The appointment marks a significant step towards establishing a more professional and structured administrative system for the temple and its growing range of activities.

Mishra, who retired from the Indian Air Force in April 2026, brings extensive experience in leadership, administration and strategic operations. During his nearly four-decade-long military career, he held several senior positions, including Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Air Command. He also served as Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Operations).

The decision to appoint a full-time CEO comes at a time when the Ram Mandir complex is witnessing a major expansion in its activities and infrastructure. With a large number of devotees visiting Ayodhya, the Trust has been focusing on strengthening systems for administration, crowd management, facilities, finances and the overall functioning of the temple complex.

According to reports, the selection process for the newly created post witnessed considerable interest. As many as 5,585 applications were received from prospective candidates. A three-member search committee was constituted to examine the applications and identify suitable candidates for the high-responsibility position.

The selection process reportedly involved several stages. These included technology-assisted screening, manual evaluation, online interactions and face-to-face interviews conducted in Ayodhya. Following the assessment, the search committee shortlisted three candidates and forwarded their names to the Trust for consideration.

After examining the recommendations and the committee's report, the Trust selected Jeetendra Mishra for the post.

As CEO, Mishra is expected to play a key role in coordinating the Trust's administrative machinery. His responsibilities are likely to include overseeing officers and employees, improving internal procedures, ensuring compliance with regulations and developing systems for the efficient functioning of the temple administration.

The appointment also comes as the Trust moves into a new phase following the completion of major stages of the Ram Mandir's construction. The temple has emerged as a major religious and cultural destination, drawing visitors from different parts of India and abroad.

In addition to appointing its first full-time CEO, the Trust announced changes to its organisational structure. Mahesh Bhagchandka, Madan Mohan Pandey and Nirmala Yadav were appointed as new trustees.

The selection of a retired senior Air Force officer for the CEO position is expected to bring an emphasis on discipline, planning and institutional management to the temple's administration.

The latest appointments underline the Trust's efforts to create a robust administrative framework capable of managing the Ram Mandir's expanding responsibilities. With increasing visitor numbers and a growing range of associated projects, the new leadership will face the task of balancing efficient management with the religious and cultural traditions associated with the sacred site.

The appointment of Jeetendra Mishra as the first full-time CEO therefore represents an important organisational development in the continuing evolution of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir administration.

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