New Delhi: In a key development in the public sector landscape, Sanjay Kumar Panigrahi has been selected for appointment as Managing Director (MD) of The Jute Corporation of India Limited (JCI). The recommendation came during a Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) meeting held on June 17, 2025.
From Cotton to Jute: A Strategic Leadership Shift
Panigrahi currently holds the post of Chief General Manager (Marketing) at The Cotton Corporation of India Limited, another central PSU under the Ministry of Textiles. His appointment at JCI will mark a significant transition from cotton to jute sector leadership under the same ministry.
Awaiting ACC Clearance
While the PESB has finalized its recommendation, the appointment of Panigrahi is subject to approval by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). The final appointment will be made following standard procedures including vigilance clearance.

Current JCI Leadership
As of now, Shashi Bhushan Singh serves as the Managing Director of JCI and sits on the Board of Directors. Panigrahi will take over once the ACC formally approves his selection and the handover process is initiated.
Competitive Selection Process
The PESB panel interviewed 11 candidates from across key public sector undertakings. Some of the prominent contenders included:
- Manoj Bajaj, CGM (Bathinda), Cotton Corporation of India
- Ajay Kumar, CGM (IT), Cotton Corporation of India
- Arabinda Hembram, GM, MMTC
- Kamlesh Kukreti, Sr. GM, BSNL
- Tejinder Pal Singh Cheema, DGM, HPCL
- Sangram Kumar Mishra, DGM, Engineers India Ltd
- Om Parkash, DGM (Finance), MRPL
- SKVN Acharyulu, GM (Sinter Plant), RINL
- CMDRE Dharmendrasinh J Revar, Deputy Director General Commodore, Indian Navy
The diversity of applicants underlines the competitiveness of the selection process for this key leadership position.
About The Jute Corporation of India
The Jute Corporation of India Limited is a Schedule ‘C’ central public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India. It plays a critical role in implementing the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for raw jute to protect the interests of jute growers.