Retired Air Marshal Jitendra Mishra, who has just taken over as the first CEO of the Ram Mandir Trust, arrived in Ayodhya by train early this morning. Within hours, he is set to hold his first formal meeting with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who is visiting Ayodhya today and will also offer prayers to Ramlala. This will be the first face-to-face interaction between the two since Mishra formally took charge of the temple trust's day-to-day management.
CEO appointment was announced on September 2
Jitendra Mishra's name was finalised on September 2, when it was decided that he would become the first CEO of the Ram Mandir Trust. He originally hails from the Deoria district of Uttar Pradesh. He retired from the Indian Air Force barely four months ago, on April 30, 2026. Over the course of his career, he played a key role in both the Kargil war and Operation Sindoor. Before retiring, he served as the Chief of the Western Air Command. In recognition of his service, he has been awarded the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal (SYSM), the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) and the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM).
The CEO's post was created after a donation theft controversy
The move to appoint a CEO followed a theft case involving donations made to the Ram Mandir, a controversy that drew widespread attention both in India and abroad. As the matter escalated, the Ram Mandir Trust removed its general secretary Champat Rai and Anil Mishra from their posts. In the aftermath, the trust decided that a dedicated CEO was needed to directly oversee the temple's daily operations, its donation system and its security arrangements, so that such incidents would not be repeated.
Three new trustees were also inducted
On the same day that Mishra's appointment as CEO was announced, the Ram Mandir Trust also inducted three new trustees. They are Mahesh Bhagchandka from Delhi, Madan Mohan Pandey from Ayodhya itself, and Nirmala Yadav from Shikohabad. All three will now have a say in the trust's decisions.
What Jitendra Mishra said after taking charge
After being named CEO, Jitendra Mishra said, "I consider it my good fortune that I was chosen from among so many candidates." He added that after 43 years of service to the nation in the Air Force, he saw this opportunity to serve the Shri Ram Mandir and its devotees as Lord Ram's own blessing.
Congress had questioned the appointment
Before this meeting, the Congress party had questioned the decision to make Jitendra Mishra the Ram Mandir Trust's CEO, arguing that such responsibilities should rest with sadhus and seers rather than a retired officer. Despite the criticism, the trust's management stood by its decision, and Mishra has since taken charge of his new role.
