Who is Jeetendra Mishra? Retired Air Marshal, Kargil veteran & Operation Sindoor hero selected as Ram temple trust’s CEO

Retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra, who was awarded the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal for his role during Operation Sindoor, has been selected as the chief executive officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir, according to TOI.

The development came as the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust considered the appointment of its CEO at a meeting in Ayodhya on Wednesday. The trust also appointed three new trustees: Delhi-based Mahesh Bhagchandka, a relative of late VHP leader Ashok Singhal; Ayodhya-based Madan Mohan Pandey; and Nirmala Yadav of Shikohabad.

Read more - Ram temple Trust appoints Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra as first CEO


The decorated former Indian Air Force commander retired in April 2026 and will now take on a key administrative role as the temple trust expands its operations.

Mishra was among the senior military commanders recognised for their leadership during Operation Sindoor. President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal on him in recognition of his distinguished service during the operation.

The medal is awarded for distinguished service of the most exceptional order during wartime, conflict or hostilities and is among India’s highest wartime military decorations.

Jeetendra Mishra spoke about Operation Sindoor air strikes

In a recent podcast interview, Mishra spoke about the air campaign during Operation Sindoor and explained how Indian forces identified and struck targets deep inside Pakistan.

He described an operation in which a target located around 314 km away was destroyed following a brief operational instruction to “shoot”.

While discussing the operation, Mishra highlighted the importance of planning, precision, technology and coordination among different arms of the armed forces. Several operational details, however, remain classified.

His comments offered a rare insight into the planning and execution of the air campaign, although sensitive operational information was not disclosed.

Jeetendra Mishra has roots in Uttar Pradesh

Mishra has roots in Uttar Pradesh and originally belongs to Bhopatpura in Deoria district, around three hours by road from Ayodhya.

He comes from a middle-class family, with his father having worked as a lecturer.

His connection to Uttar Pradesh comes as he takes up an important administrative position at the Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya.

What will Jeetendra Mishra do as Ram Mandir trust CEO?

As CEO, Mishra is expected to oversee the day-to-day administration of the temple trust and coordinate its expanding operations.

His responsibilities are likely to include pilgrim facilities, financial arrangements, staff coordination, security-related coordination and the management of large religious events.

His experience in handling large organisations, operational planning and coordination during his military career is expected to be relevant to the role.

Who is retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra?

Retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra, SYSM, AVSM, VSM, is a former Indian Air Force officer who served as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Air Command.

Before his retirement, Mishra served as Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Operations). He had earlier served as Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Doctrine, Organisation and Training) at the Integrated Defence Staff.

Mishra was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on December 6, 1986, from the Air Force Academy.

Jeetendra Mishra’s 38-year IAF career

Mishra’s military career spanned more than 38 years, during which he accumulated over 3,000 hours of flying experience.

He flew more than 18 types of fighter and transport aircraft and helicopters and served as a fighter pilot, fighter combat leader and experimental test pilot. He also held several instructional and staff appointments.

As a Squadron Leader, Mishra was part of the team that operationalised laser-guided bombs on Mirage 2000 aircraft at the beginning of the Kargil War. These weapons were later used in attacks on Tiger Hill and Muntho Dhalo during Operation Safed Sagar.

Jeetendra Mishra’s role in the Kargil War

Mishra held several key operational assignments during his IAF career. He served as the Commanding Officer of a fighter squadron in the Eastern Sector and later became chief test pilot at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s Nasik division while holding the rank of Wing Commander.

As a Group Captain, he served as Chief Test Pilot at the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment and as Director of the Operational Planning and Assessment Group at Air Headquarters in New Delhi.

In June 2010, Mishra was selected to lead the Indian Air Force contingent at the multinational air exercise Garuda IV in France.

Jeetendra Mishra’s senior IAF postings

As an Air Commodore, Mishra commanded 15 Wing at Air Force Station Bareilly and 18 Wing at Air Force Station Pathankot.

He later served as Air Commodore (Air Staff Requirements) at Air Headquarters.

After being promoted to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, Mishra served as Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Projects) at Air Headquarters and as Commandant of the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment.

Jeetendra Mishra’s role in Operation Sindoor

Mishra was awarded the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal on Independence Day in 2025 for his role during Operation Sindoor.

His other honours include the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), awarded in 2024, and the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM), awarded in 2013.

The Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal recognised his distinguished service during Operation Sindoor and added to a long list of military honours received during his career.

When did Jeetendra Mishra become Western Air Command chief?

Mishra was promoted to the rank of Air Marshal and took charge as Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Doctrine, Organisation and Training) on January 9, 2023.

He subsequently became Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Operations) on December 5, 2023.

On January 1, 2025, Mishra took over as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Air Command, succeeding Air Marshal Pankaj Mohan Sinha, who retired on December 31, 2024.

Mishra retired from the Indian Air Force in April 2026 after a career spanning more than 38 years.


Inputs from agencies