Smt Shruti Singh, an illustrious officer of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) from the Punjab cadre of 2004, embodies resilience, versatility, and an unwavering commitment to public service. Presently serving as the Resident Commissioner at Punjab Bhawan in New Delhi, she has recently been entrusted with the additional charge of Administrative Secretary for Technical Education & Industrial Training as of March 2025. Her journey through the echelons of bureaucracy is a testament to her dynamic leadership and dedication to shaping governance at both state and national levels. Born in 1982, Smt Shruti Singh, now approximately 43 years old, has left an indelible mark across diverse domains—from district administration to urban development, industrial policy, and now skill development.
Early Life and Entry into the IAS
Smt Shruti Singh’s story begins with her birth in 1982, a year that marked the arrival of a future luminary in Indian administration. Clearing the prestigious Civil Services Examination, she joined the IAS in 2004 and was assigned to the Punjab cadre. Her initial years were spent honing her skills through rigorous training, preparing her for the multifaceted challenges of public administration. With a strong foundation laid, she embarked on a career that would see her rise through the ranks, tackling some of the most demanding roles in governance.
Foundations in District Administration
Her early postings thrust her into the heart of Punjab’s administrative landscape. As Deputy Commissioner of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, Smt Shruti Singh managed the district’s day-to-day operations, ensuring the effective delivery of government programs and maintaining law and order. This role was followed by her appointment as Deputy Commissioner of Jalandhar, a key district known for its cultural and economic significance. In both positions, she demonstrated a hands-on approach, addressing local issues with empathy and efficiency, and laying the groundwork for her reputation as a capable administrator.
A Historic Tenure in Ludhiana
In 2014, Smt Shruti Singh broke new ground by becoming the first woman Municipal Corporation Commissioner of Ludhiana, Punjab’s industrial powerhouse. This milestone appointment underscored her ability to lead in challenging urban environments. As MC Commissioner, she spearheaded initiatives to enhance infrastructure, improve municipal services, and elevate the quality of life for Ludhiana’s residents. Simultaneously, she served as the Chairman of the Ludhiana Improvement Trust and Chief Administrator of the Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority (GLADA), roles that amplified her impact on urban planning and development. Her tenure in Ludhiana was a turning point, showcasing her as a pioneer for women in public administration and a catalyst for sustainable urban growth.
Prior to this, she held the position of Special Secretary in the Finance, and Health and Family Welfare Departments, alongside serving as Director, Lotteries. These roles honed her expertise in financial management and public health, preparing her for the complexities of urban governance.
Shaping National Policy on Central Deputation
Smt Shruti Singh’s capabilities earned her a coveted central deputation in 2018, when she was appointed as Deputy Secretary in the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion in Delhi under the Central Staffing Scheme. For four years, she contributed to crafting policies that bolstered industrial growth and investment across India. This national platform allowed her to influence economic development on a grand scale, blending her grassroots experience with strategic policymaking. Her work in Delhi highlighted her adaptability and her ability to thrive in high-stakes environments beyond the state’s borders.
Senior Leadership Roles in Punjab
Returning to Punjab, Smt Shruti Singh assumed the role of Secretary of Revenue and Rehabilitation, where she tackled critical issues like land revenue administration, disaster management, and rehabilitation programs. Alongside this, she took on the mantle of Resident Commissioner at Punjab Bhawan in New Delhi, acting as Punjab’s representative in the national capital and facilitating coordination with the central government.
In August 2023, her responsibilities expanded significantly. Transferred to the position of Secretary of Personnel, she oversaw the state’s human resource management, ensuring the welfare and efficiency of government employees. She also held additional charges as Secretary of Vigilance, driving anti-corruption efforts, and Secretary of General Administration & Coordination, streamlining governmental operations. Throughout this period, she continued as Resident Commissioner, deftly balancing her duties between Punjab and New Delhi—a reflection of her exceptional multitasking abilities.
A New Chapter: Technical Education and Industrial Training
As of March 6, 2025, Smt Shruti Singh’s portfolio evolved once more. While retaining her position as Resident Commissioner at Punjab Bhawan, she was entrusted with the additional charge of Administrative Secretary for Technical Education & Industrial Training. This role positions her as a key architect of Punjab’s skill development ecosystem. By overseeing technical institutions and industrial training programs, she is set to empower the state’s youth with the tools needed to succeed in a competitive job market. Her leadership in this domain aligns with national and state priorities to bridge the skills gap and boost employment—an endeavor that promises to leave a lasting legacy.
Personal Life: A Power Couple in Public Service
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Smt Shruti Singh is married to Shri Ashish Chaudhary, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer who has served as the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Ludhiana Rural. Together, they form a formidable duo, each excelling in their respective spheres of civil and police services. Their partnership exemplifies a shared dedication to public welfare and governance.
A Legacy of Impact and Inspiration
At approximately 43 years of age, Smt Shruti Singh stands as a beacon of inspiration, particularly for women aspiring to leadership roles in the civil services. Her career is a vibrant tapestry of achievements—spanning district administration, urban transformation, national policymaking, and now skill development. From breaking gender barriers in Ludhiana to shaping industrial policies in Delhi and driving technical education in Punjab, she has consistently demonstrated a forward-thinking approach and a passion for public good.
Her journey reflects the essence of the IAS: adaptability, service, and excellence. As she continues to serve Punjab and the nation, Smt Shruti Singh remains a dynamic force, poised to influence the future of governance and development for years to come.