Jeetendra Mishra Takes Charge as First CEO of Ayodhya Ram Temple Trust

Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra (Retd) has taken charge as the first chief executive officer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, saying the responsibility of managing the Ayodhya Ram temple has now come onto his shoulders.

Mishra assumed charge days after the Trust appointed him to the newly created position of CEO to oversee the management and operations of the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Speaking after his initial visit to Ayodhya, Mishra said he understood the significance of the responsibility entrusted to him and would work towards understanding the temple's administrative and operational systems before formulating future plans.

His appointment is part of a wider administrative restructuring within the Trust following controversy surrounding alleged embezzlement of temple donations. Several people were arrested in connection with the case, following which changes were made to the Trust's key administrative positions.

The Trust appointed Govind Dev Giri as its general secretary and Mahesh Bhagchandka as treasurer, while Madan Mohan Pandey and Nirmala Yadav were inducted as trustees.

During his first visit to Ayodhya as CEO, Mishra met Trust members and office-bearers and was briefed about the temple's day-to-day administration, financial systems and accounting procedures.

He described the visit as an introductory exercise aimed at understanding the functioning of the temple and the responsibilities of different officials.

Mishra said he would return to Ayodhya after further discussions and would gradually develop plans as he gained a deeper understanding of the temple's operations.

The retired Air Marshal previously headed the Western Air Command and retired from the Indian Air Force on April 30, 2026.

The 62-year-old was selected for the CEO position from a shortlist of three candidates after the Trust received 5,585 applications for the newly created post.

Sources indicated that the appointment is intended to strengthen administrative and financial systems as the scale of operations at the Ram temple continues to expand.

The Trust is also expected to establish standard operating procedures in the coming days to clearly define the CEO's powers, duties and responsibilities.

Mishra has previously described the new role as one of the most significant responsibilities of his life, saying that after serving the country, he now has the opportunity to serve Lord Ram and the millions of devotees who visit the temple.