Retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra has been appointed the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which manages the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The decision was taken at a Trust meeting in Ayodhya on September 2, 2026.
Mishra retired from the Indian Air Force in April 2026 after nearly 39 years of service. At the time, he was the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Air Command. He is originally from Deoria district in Uttar Pradesh.
Selection After a Detailed Process
Mishra was selected after a formal search process. A three-member committee was formed on July 6 to find a suitable candidate for the newly created post.
The committee reportedly received 5,585 applications. Of these, 1,580 candidates were found eligible, while 108 took part in online interactions. Sixteen candidates were later interviewed in Ayodhya before three names were placed before the Trust.
A Veteran Military Leader
Mishra brings nearly four decades of military experience to his new role. He served as the head of the IAF’s Western Air Command during Operation Sindoor and held several senior responsibilities during his career.
His experience in leadership, administration and large-scale coordination is expected to help the Trust strengthen the temple’s day-to-day management and organizational systems.
Trust Undergoing Administrative Changes
Mishra’s appointment comes amid wider changes within the Ram Temple Trust following allegations concerning the theft or misappropriation of temple donations. Reports have said that eight people were arrested in connection with the case.
The Trust also appointed Govind Dev Giri as full-time general secretary and Mahesh Bhagchandka as treasurer. Three new trustees were named as well, including Nirmala Yadav, the Trust’s first woman member. Mishra’s appointment is being seen as an important step towards strengthening professional administration at the Ram Temple.