Key Points
- Current Role: S. J. Haider is the Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of Gujarat in the Energy and Petrochemicals Department, a position he has held since August 2024.
- Experience: With over 33 years in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Haider has served in various key roles across multiple sectors in Gujarat.
- Education: He holds an M.Sc. in Physics with a specialization in Electronics, providing a strong technical foundation for his administrative roles.
- Contributions: Haider has been instrumental in policy formulation, industrial development, and leading Gujarat’s energy sector toward sustainability.
- Directorships: He serves on the boards of several state-owned enterprises, including GSFC, GACL, and Gujarat Gas Limited.
Who is S. J. Haider?
S. J. Haider is a seasoned IAS officer from the 1991 Gujarat cadre, currently serving as the Additional Chief Secretary in the Energy and Petrochemicals Department. His extensive experience spans over three decades, during which he has held pivotal roles in various government departments, contributing significantly to Gujarat’s growth as an industrial and energy hub.
What Has He Achieved?
Haider’s career is marked by his ability to navigate complex administrative challenges and drive policy initiatives. He has played a key role in shaping Gujarat’s energy policies, promoting sustainable practices, and fostering industrial growth through his directorships in major public sector enterprises. His recent appointments as Additional Director of Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Limited (GSFC) and Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited (GACL) highlight his influence in the petrochemical sector.
Why is His Work Important?
As Gujarat continues to position itself as a leader in India’s energy and industrial sectors, Haider’s leadership is crucial. His efforts in policy formulation and strategic oversight ensure that the state remains competitive and sustainable, addressing both economic and environmental challenges.
Biography of S. J. Haider: A Visionary Leader in Gujarat’s Administration
S. J. Haider, a distinguished member of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), currently serves as the Additional Chief Secretary to the Government of Gujarat in the Energy and Petrochemicals Department. With over 33 years of experience in administration and governance, Haider has been instrumental in shaping policies and driving initiatives that have significantly impacted Gujarat’s industrial and energy sectors. His career is marked by a blend of technical expertise, administrative acumen, and a deep commitment to public service, making him a pivotal figure in the state’s development.
Early Life and Education
Born and raised in Gujarat, S. J. Haider pursued his higher education with a focus on science and technology. He holds an M.Sc. in Physics with a specialization in Electronics, a background that has undoubtedly contributed to his analytical and problem-solving skills in his administrative roles. His academic foundation in a technical discipline has been a valuable asset in managing complex sectors like energy and petrochemicals, where precision and innovation are paramount.
To join the prestigious Indian Administrative Service, Haider successfully cleared the highly competitive Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination, a testament to his intellectual rigor and determination. His entry into the IAS in 1991 as part of the Gujarat cadre marked the beginning of a remarkable career dedicated to public service.
Career Trajectory: From Grassroots to Leadership
Haider’s journey in the IAS began with grassroots roles that provided him with a deep understanding of local governance and development. He served as District Development Officer, Municipal Commissioner, and Collector & District Magistrate in various districts of Gujarat. These positions allowed him to address local challenges, from infrastructure development to public welfare, and honed his skills in managing diverse administrative responsibilities.
Over the years, Haider’s career expanded to include roles in several key departments, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. He has worked in:
- Finance Department: Contributing to fiscal policy and budget management.
- Transport Department: Overseeing improvements in public transportation systems.
- Science and Technology Department: Promoting technological advancements in governance.
- Tourism & Civil Aviation Department: Enhancing Gujarat’s tourism infrastructure and aviation policies.
- Rural Development Department: Implementing programs to uplift rural communities.
- Education Department (Higher and Technical Education): Strengthening educational institutions and policies.
- Industries and Mines Department: Driving industrial growth and investment.
In 2021, Haider was appointed as Principal Secretary to the Government, Education Department (Higher & Technical Education), Sachivalaya, Gandhinagar, after serving as Vice Chairman & Managing Director of the Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation . His tenure in the Education Department focused on advancing higher education and technical training, aligning with Gujarat’s vision of becoming a knowledge-based economy.
In August 2024, Haider transitioned to the role of Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy and Petrochemicals Department, having previously served as Additional Chief Secretary of the Industries & Mines Department. This move positioned him at the forefront of one of Gujarat’s most critical sectors, where he continues to drive policy and innovation.
Key Achievements and Contributions
S. J. Haider’s career is distinguished by several notable achievements that have left a lasting impact on Gujarat’s administrative and industrial landscape. Below is a summary of his key contributions:
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Directorships in Public Sector Enterprises | Haider serves on the boards of multiple state-owned enterprises, including Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Limited (GSFC), Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizers & Chemicals Limited (GNFC), Gujarat Gas Limited, Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation Limited, Gujarat Power Corporation Limited, Gujarat State Electricity Corporation Limited, Gujarat Energy Transmission Corporation Limited, and Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (GSFC Board of Directors). His strategic oversight has been crucial in aligning these organizations with Gujarat’s economic goals. |
| Policy Formulation | As Additional Chief Secretary, Haider has played a pivotal role in formulating policies that promote sustainable energy practices and enhance the competitiveness of Gujarat’s petrochemical industry. His efforts focus on attracting investments, improving infrastructure, and fostering innovation in the energy sector. |
| Leadership in Industrial Summits | Haider has been a key figure in organizing the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investment Summit, a flagship event to attract investments to the state. His involvement since the summit’s inception has helped showcase Gujarat’s industrial prowess, drawing millions of visitors and investors (The Secretariat). |
| Climate Change Initiatives | Haider held the additional charge of Additional Chief Secretary, Climate Change Department, where he contributed to policies aimed at addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development. |
Recent Developments
In August 2024, Haider was appointed as an Additional Director of Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals Limited (GSFC), a role that further solidified his influence in the petrochemical sector . In May 2025, he was appointed as an Additional Director of Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited (GACL), pending shareholder approval, reflecting the continued trust in his leadership capabilities .
Additionally, Haider resigned as Chairman of the Gujarat State Financial Corporation in August 2024, indicating a strategic shift in his focus toward his current role in the Energy and Petrochemicals Department .
A Visionary Leader
Haider’s career is characterized by his ability to balance technical expertise with administrative excellence. His background in physics and electronics provides a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in the energy and petrochemical sectors. Colleagues and subordinates often praise his approachable nature, his ability to listen, and his knack for making informed decisions that benefit the state and its citizens.
His leadership in the Energy and Petrochemicals Department is particularly significant, as Gujarat is a key player in India’s energy landscape, with a growing focus on renewable energy, sustainable practices, and industrial innovation. Haider’s strategic vision ensures that the state remains at the forefront of these developments, addressing both economic and environmental priorities.
Personal Insights
While specific details about Haider’s personal life are not widely available, his professional journey speaks volumes about his dedication to public service and his commitment to the development of Gujarat. His ability to navigate complex administrative challenges, coupled with his technical expertise, makes him a respected figure in the state’s bureaucracy.
Conclusion
S. J. Haider’s career is a testament to the impact that dedicated public servants can have on the development and governance of a state. His journey from a district-level officer to a key figure in Gujarat’s energy and petrochemical sectors illustrates his versatility, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence. As Gujarat continues to grow and evolve, Haider’s leadership will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future.