Ayodhya: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has initiated the process of appointing the first-ever Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Ram Temple, marking a major step towards strengthening the temple’s administrative framework. The move comes amid efforts to enhance transparency and professional management following the recent controversy over alleged irregularities in temple donations.
According to the Trust, the CEO will be responsible for overseeing the temple’s day-to-day administration, financial management, pilgrim services, and future development. However, the selection committee has emphasized that deep devotion to Lord Ram, commitment to public service, and respect for the faith of millions of devotees will carry greater weight than academic qualifications or corporate experience alone.
The three-member search committee, constituted by the Trust on July 6, comprises Suresh Haware, retired Justice Pradeep Kohli, and Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Vishnukant Chaturvedi. The panel has been tasked with identifying suitable candidates and recommending a shortlist to the Trust for the final appointment.
Speaking on the selection criteria, committee member Suresh Haware said the Ram Temple is not an ordinary institution and therefore requires a leader who understands both modern management and the spiritual significance of the shrine. He said the ideal candidate must possess unwavering faith in Lord Ram, a strong sense of service, and the ability to manage an institution that represents the aspirations and devotion of millions of people.
The CEO will oversee a wide range of responsibilities, including pilgrim amenities, crowd management, security, disaster preparedness, human resource management, financial administration, procurement, and the integration of modern technologies into temple operations. Ensuring transparency in the utilisation of donations and implementing long-term development plans will also form part of the role.
Officials noted that the Ram Temple receives more than two lakh devotees daily, with the number increasing significantly during festivals and special religious occasions. The Trust believes the growing scale of operations requires a professionally managed administrative structure supported by modern technologies, including artificial intelligence and advanced management systems, to ensure a seamless experience for pilgrims.
Nripendra Misra, Chairman of the Ram Temple Construction Committee, has also supported the appointment of an experienced CEO, saying the temple has evolved into an international centre of faith and requires robust professional management. He said the CEO should function under the Trust while enjoying sufficient operational autonomy to take day-to-day administrative decisions efficiently.
The Trust expects the appointment of its first CEO to strengthen governance, improve operational efficiency, and reinforce public confidence by ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the management of one of India’s most significant religious institutions.
