SAIL Chairman Recruitment 2026: Interviews Near, Top Executives and IAS Officers in Contention
New Delhi, March 17, 2026: The Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) is gearing up to appoint its next Chairman, with interviews for the prestigious post expected to be conducted by the end of March. The race has attracted a strong pool of candidates, including senior SAIL executives, IAS officers, and leaders from other public sector undertakings (PSUs).
Leading Candidates in the Fray
Among the frontrunners for the Chairman role are:
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Priya Ranjan, Director In-Charge, Bhilai Steel Plant (BSL)
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Surjit Mishra, Director In-Charge, Durgapur Steel Plant
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Alok Verma, Director In-Charge, Rourkela Steel Plant
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A.K. Panda, Director (Finance & Accounts), SAIL
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Manish Raj Gupta, Director (Mining), SAIL
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Anish Sengupta, Executive Director (Projects), BSL
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S. Shubhraj, Executive Director, Alloy Steel Plant
Alongside these SAIL insiders, officials from other PSUs and a select number of IAS officers have submitted applications, indicating a competitive and diverse candidate pool.
Selection Process and Shortlisting
Sources indicate that the shortlist of candidates is expected by March end 2026, with approximately 12 to 14 individuals likely to make it to the interview stage. While most shortlisted candidates are expected to be current or former SAIL executives, a few external PSU officers could also secure a place.
Interviews are likely to be conducted online, with results announced shortly after completion. The selection process is being closely monitored, as the Ministry of Steel aims to ensure a smooth transition at the helm of the steel giant.
Interim Chairman Appointment
In the meantime, the Ministry of Steel is preparing to appoint an Interim Chairman to oversee operations until a permanent appointment is finalized. The interim posting is expected to be announced by March 30, 2026.
The appointment process remains rigorous:
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The Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) recommends candidates
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Detailed background and vigilance clearances are conducted
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Final approval rests with the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC)
If PESB does not recommend any candidate, the matter may be escalated to a Search-cum-Selection Committee (SCSC), potentially prolonging the appointment of a full-time Chairman. This makes the interim appointment a critical decision to maintain leadership continuity.
Outgoing Chairman
The outgoing SAIL Chairman, Amarendu Prakash, chaired his final board meeting on March 16, 2026, and will formally step down on April 1, 2026. His tenure has been marked by significant strategic initiatives in steel production and modernization of SAIL’s plants.