LUCKNOW: Air Marshal (Retd) Jeetendra Mishra, selected as the first chief executive officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, on Wednesday described the appointment as a fresh opportunity to serve the nation after nearly four decades in uniform.The former Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Air Force’s Western Air Command said it was the chance to contribute to the country and its people that motivated him to apply for the position.“Whatever inspired the other 5,585 candidates inspired me as well. It is the opportunity to serve the people of my nation,” Mishra told TOI.Expressing gratitude over his selection, Mishra said he viewed the appointment as a blessing and a continuation of his lifelong commitment to public service.“I am full of gratitude and consider myself very fortunate. God gave me an opportunity to serve the nation in uniform for 39 years. Within a couple of months of my retirement, God has given me another opportunity to serve the nation,” he said.Mishra, who retired from the Indian Air Force in April 2026, said he regarded his selection as Lord Ram’s blessing and thanked the selection committee for choosing him from among thousands of applicants.“I sincerely thank the selection committee. I consider it my good fortune that I was selected from among so many candidates. I hope I can contribute in serving the Ram temple and its devotees,” he said.Asked about the transition from military leadership to heading the administrative apparatus of one of the country’s most prominent religious institutions, Mishra said the platform had changed but the larger objective remained the same.“It is a transition from uniform to non-uniform, but it is again an opportunity to serve the nation,” he said.The former Air Marshal, who commanded the Western Air Command during Operation Sindoor, said it was too early to discuss specific plans before formally assuming charge. He said he would first interact with members of the Trust and understand the expectations and responsibilities attached to the newly created post.“I have not yet been able to speak with the Trust. As they direct me, I will join and take charge,” he said.Mishra said his family was delighted by the development and viewed it as a matter of pride and gratitude.“It is God’s order. Everyone in my family is immensely pleased. My mother, other family members and my two children are all very happy,” he said.Seeking Lord Ram’s guidance for the task ahead, Mishra said he hoped to discharge his responsibilities with sincerity and commitment.The CEO will be responsible for overseeing the Trust’s growing administrative and operational functions, including pilgrim management, coordination among stakeholders, security arrangements, financial management, engineering works, technology initiatives and the organisation of major religious events at the Ram temple complex.
