New Delhi: In a significant leadership development, the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has recommended Mr.Kota Ravi, currently Director (Operations) at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), for the post of Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of the defence public sector major. The recommendation was made during PESB Meeting No. 8/2026, held on January 29, 2026, at 8:45 AM, and recorded under Minute No. 1. Selection Process and Key Candidates Mr.Kota Ravi was selected after a competitive interview process involving several senior officials from HAL and other public sector organizations. The shortlisted candidates included: Mr.P B Rangarao, CEO – Helicopter Complex, HAL Mr.Shishir Kumar Patra, Executive Director (AMD), HAL Nasik Mr.Bankim Kumar Pradhan, Executive Director (Finance), Bangalore Complex, HAL Mr.Jasbir Singh, Executive Director, HAL Rotary Wing Research and Design Centre, Bengaluru Mr.Shrirang Anilrao Kothe, Executive Director (Koraput), HAL Mr.R Venu Gopal, Senior General Manager, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) Mr.Magesh, Director General, Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) Read also: HAL to Showcase Dhruv NG, H-228, and SJ-100 at Wings India 2026, Strengthening India’s Civil Aviation Experience and Leadership Role With decades of experience in aviation operations, manufacturing, and program management, Mr.Kota Ravi is expected to provide strong leadership to HAL. His background positions him well to guide the company’s major defence and aerospace programs, including aircraft production, engine manufacturing, and platform integration. Strategic Impact on HAL’s Growth Plans The leadership change comes at a critical time as HAL continues to scale up production and development of: Fighter aircraft Helicopters and rotorcraft Unmanned aerial systems (drones) Advanced defence and aerospace technologies Under the proposed leadership, HAL is expected to further strengthen India’s indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem and support national security objectives. Next Steps in the Appointment Process The PESB recommendation will now be forwarded to the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) for final approval. Upon clearance, Mr.Kota Ravi will formally take charge as CMD of HAL. About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is India’s premier aerospace and defence public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Defence. HAL is engaged in the design, development, manufacture, and maintenance of aircraft, helicopters, engines, and avionics, playing a vital role in strengthening India’s self-reliance in defence and aerospace technologies. Read also: L&T TEJAS MK-1A Wing Delivery Signals Progress in India’s Indigenous Fighter Aircraft Program
