New Delhi : The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has recommended Shailesh Vagerwal for appointment as Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), a key Schedule ‘B’ defense public sector undertaking.
Mr. Vagerwal is currently serving as Chief General Manager at Munitions India Limited (MIL) and brings decades of experience in defense production, strategic planning, and operational leadership. His recommendation is expected to further strengthen BDL’s manufacturing capabilities and contribute to India’s overall defense preparedness.
Proven Leadership in Defence Manufacturing
During his tenure at Munitions India Limited, Mr. Vagerwal has led several high-impact initiatives in ammunition manufacturing, supply chain optimization, quality assurance, and operational excellence. His leadership has played a significant role in improving production efficiency while supporting India’s defense modernization and indigenization goals.
Other Candidates Interviewed
The PESB interview panel also considered the following senior executives for the CMD position:
- Neeraj Uday, General Manager (HSS & SED), Electronics Corporation of India Limited
- Santosh Kumar, General Manager, Vande Bharat Production & Maintenance, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited
- Abhitabh Nath Rawal, Additional General Manager, BHEL
- Sanjeev Kumar Agrawal, Chief General Manager, Defence Production
- Babji Patchilla, General Manager, Defence
- Surendra Kumar, General Manager, Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited, Chennai
- Amit Singh, Chief General Manager, OEF Hazratpur, Troop Comforts Limited, Ministry of Defence
- Utapaal Srivastav, General Manager, Defence
Boost to Self-Reliance in Defence
With PESB’s recommendation, Bharat Dynamics Limited is expected to gain renewed momentum in strategic missile and defense equipment manufacturing. The move aligns with the Government of India’s emphasis on Atmanirbhar Bharat in defense production and is seen as a step toward strengthening indigenous capabilities across critical defense platforms.
The final appointment will be subject to approval by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).