New Delhi: The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has recommended Varun Kumar Shukla for the prestigious post of Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Hindustan Salts Limited (HSL), a Schedule “C” Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the Ministry of Heavy Industries, Government of India.
Selection After Competitive Evaluation
Shukla emerged as the top choice after a rigorous selection process in which seven candidates appeared before the PESB for interviews held on Wednesday.
The recommendation is now subject to requisite vigilance clearances and final approval by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC). Upon approval, Shukla will take over the CMD role from Commodore Kamlesh Kumar (Retd), who superannuated on August 4, 2025.
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Currently Serving at Richardson & Cruddas
At present, Varun Kumar Shukla holds the position of General Manager at Richardson & Cruddas (1972) Limited, another public sector company. His industry experience and leadership at Richardson & Cruddas are expected to bring valuable insights and direction to HSL.
About Hindustan Salts Limited
Hindustan Salts Limited, headquartered in Jaipur, is India’s only public sector company involved in salt manufacturing and distribution. It operates under the Ministry of Heavy Industries and has been instrumental in ensuring the availability of industrial and edible salt across the country.
What Comes Next
Following the PESB recommendation, the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) will initiate the clearance process. Once ACC approval is granted, Varun Kumar Shukla will officially assume charge as the new CMD of HSL, leading the PSU into its next phase of growth.
