Retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra has been appointed as the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which oversees the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The appointment was announced following a meeting of the Trust in Ayodhya on September 2.
Mishra brings nearly four decades of experience in the Indian Air Force and has held several key operational and leadership positions. His experience in planning, coordination, logistics and administration is expected to strengthen the management of the Ram Temple complex and the Trust’s expanding operations.
Key Role During Operation Sindoor
Jeetendra Mishra served as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Air Force’s Western Air Command from January 1, 2025, until his retirement on April 30, 2026. He was at the helm of the Western Air Command during Operation Sindoor in May 2025.
The Western Air Command is responsible for the security of India’s western airspace, covering strategically important areas including Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana and parts of the northern region.
Mishra was among the senior commanders involved in planning and overseeing air operations during Operation Sindoor. He was also recognised for his service during the operation and was awarded the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal.
Selected from Thousands of Applicants
The Trust had constituted a three-member search committee to select its first full-time CEO. More than 5,500 applications were reportedly received for the post, following which candidates were screened and shortlisted. Mishra was eventually selected from a final shortlist of three candidates.
As CEO, Mishra will oversee the administrative functioning of the Trust and key operational responsibilities related to the Ram Temple complex. His appointment is expected to bring greater organisational discipline and professional management to the temple’s expanding administrative structure.