Lochan Sehra, a distinguished 2002-batch IAS officer of the Gujarat cadre, has carved an illustrious path through India’s bureaucratic landscape, culminating in his pivotal role as Joint Secretary at the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) in Ahmedabad. His career, marked by strategic leadership, urban governance expertise, and a commitment to public service, has positioned him as a key figure in India’s burgeoning space sector. This comprehensive biography explores Sehra’s journey from his early days as an aspiring civil servant to his current role in shaping the future of India’s space industry offering an engaging narrative of dedication, innovation, and impact.
Early Life and Education: A Foundation for Public Service
Born in the vibrant state of Gujarat, Lochan Sehra grew up in an environment that valued education, discipline, and service to society. From an early age, he exhibited a keen intellect and a drive to excel, qualities that would later define his career. Sehra pursued his higher education with rigor, earning a degree that equipped him with the analytical and leadership skills necessary for a career in public administration. His academic journey was marked by a focus on strategic thinking and problem-solving, which he later applied to his roles in governance.
Sehra’s determination to serve the nation led him to prepare for the highly competitive Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination. His disciplined approach and strategic preparation paid off when he cleared the UPSC exam, securing a position in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in the 2002 Gujarat cadre. This achievement marked the beginning of a career dedicated to public welfare and transformative governance.
Early Career: Rising Through the Ranks in Gujarat
Lochan Sehra’s early career as an IAS officer was characterized by a series of roles that showcased his administrative acumen and commitment to public service. He began his journey in various districts of Gujarat, where he tackled grassroots challenges in rural and urban administration. His ability to navigate complex bureaucratic systems while delivering tangible results earned him recognition as a capable and dynamic officer.
By 2018, Sehra’s expertise in urban governance led to his appointment as Secretary of the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department in Gandhinagar. In this role, he played a critical part in shaping policies that enhanced urban infrastructure and housing initiatives across Gujarat. His tenure was marked by innovative approaches to urban planning, including initiatives to promote sustainable development and improve living conditions for residents.
In December 2021, Sehra was appointed as the Municipal Commissioner of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), a prestigious and challenging role that placed him at the helm of one of India’s largest urban bodies. During his tenure, which lasted less than a year, Sehra focused on improving civic amenities, streamlining municipal operations, and addressing the challenges of rapid urbanization in Ahmedabad. His leadership during this period was praised for its efficiency and forward-thinking approach, even as he navigated the complexities of managing a city recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Transition to IN-SPACe: A New Frontier in Space Governance
In October 2022, Lochan Sehra’s career took a significant turn when he was appointed Joint Secretary at the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) in Ahmedabad, a role approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. This transition marked a shift from urban governance to the cutting-edge domain of space technology and policy, reflecting Sehra’s versatility and ability to adapt to new challenges.
IN-SPACe, established in June 2020 under the Department of Space, is a single-window autonomous agency tasked with promoting, enabling, and supervising non-governmental entities (NGEs) in India’s space sector. Headquartered in Ahmedabad, IN-SPACe plays a pivotal role in fostering private sector participation in space activities, including satellite development, launch vehicles, and space-based services. Sehra’s appointment to this organization underscores his reputation as a forward-thinking administrator capable of driving innovation in a high-stakes, technology-driven field.
As Joint Secretary, Sehra has been instrumental in advancing IN-SPACe’s mission to create a vibrant ecosystem for private space enterprises. His role involves coordinating with stakeholders, including startups, industries, and international partners, to facilitate collaborations and streamline regulatory processes. Under his leadership, IN-SPACe has made significant strides in promoting India’s space industry, including the inauguration of a state-of-the-art Technical Centre at its Ahmedabad headquarters and the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to establish a space manufacturing park and a Center of Excellence for space technology.
Key Contributions at IN-SPACe: Shaping India’s Space Future
Sehra’s tenure at IN-SPACe has been marked by several high-impact initiatives that have strengthened India’s position in the global space industry. One of his notable contributions was his leadership in organizing the India-Japan Space Industry Day in March 2024, held in Ahmedabad. This event, conducted in partnership with Japan’s National Space Policy Secretariat and the Cabinet Office, brought together over 50 Indian non-governmental entities and 15 Japanese companies, including the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The event fostered collaboration, showcased national space policies, and facilitated networking opportunities, reinforcing India’s commitment to international partnerships in the space sector.
In April 2025, Sehra played a key role in the launch of a nationwide survey by IN-SPACe and the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) to collect data on India’s space industry. This initiative aimed to provide critical insights into the sector’s growth, enabling evidence-based policymaking and investment. Additionally, Sehra’s involvement in the 7th edition of the IN-SPACe Industry Connect (IIC) in Ahmedabad brought together diverse stakeholders, further solidifying IN-SPACe’s role as a catalyst for innovation.
Sehra’s strategic vision has also been evident in his support for the Gujarat SpaceTech Policy (2025-2030), a landmark initiative by the Gujarat government to position the state as a hub for space technology. His efforts have helped align IN-SPACe’s objectives with state-level policies, creating a conducive environment for startups and industries to thrive.
Leadership Style and Philosophy
Lochan Sehra’s leadership style is characterized by a blend of strategic foresight, inclusivity, and a commitment to excellence. His ability to bridge the gap between policy and implementation has been a hallmark of his career, whether in urban governance or space administration. Sehra’s approach to preparation, as highlighted in his UPSC journey, emphasizes focus, positivity, and disciplined effort principles he continues to apply in his professional roles.
His emphasis on collaboration is evident in his work at IN-SPACe, where he has fostered partnerships between government agencies, private entities, and international organizations. Sehra’s ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, from technical experts to policymakers, has made him a respected figure in both bureaucratic and industry circles.
Personal Life and Legacy
While much of Sehra’s life is dedicated to public service, he remains a private individual with a deep commitment to his family and community. Based in Ahmedabad, he continues to engage with local initiatives and maintains a low-profile presence on professional platforms like LinkedIn, where he shares updates about IN-SPACe’s achievements.
Sehra’s journey from a young IAS aspirant to a key figure in India’s space sector is a testament to his dedication, adaptability, and vision. His contributions to urban development and space governance have left a lasting impact, inspiring future generations of administrators and innovators. As India aims to become a global leader in the space industry, Lochan Sehra’s leadership at IN-SPACe will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping this ambitious future.
Conclusion: A Trailblazer in Governance and Innovation
Lochan Sehra’s career is a remarkable narrative of service, resilience, and innovation. From transforming urban governance in Ahmedabad to driving India’s space ambitions at IN-SPACe, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver results. As Joint Secretary, he is not only contributing to India’s space ecosystem but also inspiring a new generation of leaders to dream big and aim for the stars.