Meet Sujata Saunik: Maharashtra’s First Woman Chief Secretary

Sujata Saunik assumed office as the state’s chief secretary on Sunday, marking the first time a woman has held this prestigious position in the state’s 64-year history. Saunik, an IAS officer from the 1987 batch, succeeds Nitin Kareer, who retired from the role the same day.

Saunik is slated to serve a one-year term, retiring in June next year. Her extensive career spans over three decades, during which she has garnered expertise in public policy and governance across diverse sectors including healthcare, finance, education, disaster management, and peacekeeping. She has held various pivotal roles within the Indian Administrative Service and has also served internationally under the United Nations.

Prior to her appointment as chief secretary, Sujata Saunik served as the additional chief secretary in Maharashtra’s home department. Notably, her husband Manoj Saunik is also a former chief secretary of the state, adding a unique dimension to their shared contributions to public service in Maharashtra.

Saunik’s appointment underscores a significant stride towards gender inclusivity in leadership roles within the state bureaucracy, reflecting her distinguished career and commitment to public service.