New Delhi: The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has recommended Shankar Narayan, General Manager at Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), for appointment to the prestigious position of Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of Central Electronics Limited (CEL), a Schedule ‘B’ Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
The selection was made during the PESB Meeting No. 104/2025, held on October 29, 2025, where eleven candidates from major Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), including BHEL, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), and the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS), participated in the interview process.
A Rigorous Selection Process
Among the candidates interviewed, several senior executives from prominent PSUs were considered, including Rajnish Goyal, Managing Director and CEO on deputation to NBPPL (nominated by BHEL management), Ramnik Sarbahi, General Manager (Power Sector – Eastern Region), BHEL, and Ajay Saxena, General Manager and Project Director, BHEL. Other candidates hailed from BSNL, CRIS, and Indian Railways.
Following a thorough evaluation of each candidate’s credentials and performance during the interview, the Board concluded that Shankar Narayan was the most suitable candidate for the role, and thus recommended his name for the post of CMD of CEL.
Central Electronics Limited: A Key Player in Strategic Sectors
Central Electronics Limited (CEL), headquartered in Sahibabad, Uttar Pradesh, plays a critical role in India’s strategic electronics, solar energy, and defense sectors. The company is involved in the production of solar photovoltaic systems, railway electronics, and a variety of defense products. CEL’s products are crucial in the development of renewable energy infrastructure and modern defense technologies in India.
The appointment of a new CMD is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening CEL’s leadership as it continues to grow and diversify in sectors that are integral to India’s sustainable energy and national security strategies. The leadership transition is expected to further boost CEL’s capabilities in the renewable energy and strategic electronics sectors, areas that align with India’s long-term goals of energy security and self-reliance in defense technologies.
Shankar Narayan: A Seasoned Leader with Extensive Experience
Shankar Narayan brings a wealth of experience to the role of CMD at CEL. Having served as the General Manager at BHEL, one of India’s largest and most prominent engineering and manufacturing PSUs, he has developed a deep understanding of the power, energy, and electronics industries. His expertise in project management, leadership, and strategic growth will be vital in steering CEL toward new milestones in both its core and emerging sectors.
A Strategic Appointment for CEL’s Future Growth
The appointment of Shankar Narayan to lead Central Electronics Limited comes at a crucial time as the company aims to expand its footprint in the fast-evolving renewable energy and electronic defense sectors. With India’s increasing focus on sustainability and self-reliance, CEL’s leadership under Narayan is expected to drive further innovation, production capabilities, and expansion into new markets.
The PESB’s recommendation marks a significant step towards the continued success and transformation of CEL into a key player in India’s strategic electronics, renewable energy, and defense industries, contributing to the nation’s broader economic and security objectives.
About Central Electronics Limited (CEL)
Founded in 1974, Central Electronics Limited is a Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. CEL is engaged in the design, development, and manufacturing of solar photovoltaic systems, railway electronics, and defense electronics. The company plays a vital role in India’s push for solar energy adoption and technological advancements in strategic defense sectors.
