The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has invited applications for the chairman and managing director (CMD) position at Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL), opening the role to private sector candidates. BSNL has been without a full-time CMD for two years, with Robert J. Ravi holding additional charge since July 2024. The search comes as BSNL reported a loss of ₹4,738 crore for fiscal year 2026, according to livemint.com.
Robert J. Ravi, from DoT, has been serving as BSNL’s CMD on an additional charge basis since 15 July 2024 and was granted multiple extensions, the latest being a six-month extension in April 2026 until October. The government has set up a Search-cum-Selection Committee (SCSC) chaired by the Chairman of the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) to oversee the recruitment process, livemint.com reported.
The appointment is critical as BSNL faces significant financial challenges, including the reported ₹4,738 crore loss in FY26. The inclusion of private sector candidates signals a shift in approach to bring in leadership with diverse experience to help revive the state-owned telecom operator. BSNL’s leadership vacuum has persisted since 2024, impacting its strategic direction amid a competitive telecom market in India.
The Search-cum-Selection Committee under PESB’s chairman is actively reviewing applications as of June 2026, with the CMD role expected to be filled following the committee’s recommendations. Robert J. Ravi’s current extension is valid until October 2026, after which a permanent appointment is anticipated, according to livemint.com.