In the vibrant tapestry of Indian bureaucracy, few threads shine as brightly as that of Smt. Sujata Saunik, an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the 1987 batch whose career is a testament to resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication. On July 2024, she etched her name into history as the first woman to assume the role of Chief Secretary of Maharashtra, breaking a 64-year-old glass ceiling and inspiring countless others. From her humble beginnings in Chandigarh to her ascent to one of the highest administrative posts in Maharashtra, Sujata’s story is one of academic brilliance, professional excellence, and a relentless commitment to public service. This biography delves deep into her life, career milestones, and the legacy she continues to build, narrated with a human touch and dynamic flair.
Early Life and Education: The Roots of Excellence
Sujata Saunik was born on June 15, 1965, in Chandigarh, Haryana, a city known for its planned beauty and progressive spirit. She grew up in a household where public service was more than a career—it was a way of life. Her father, C.D. Cheema, was a distinguished IAS officer, and her brother, Gautam Cheema, followed a similar path as an IPS officer. This environment of duty and discipline profoundly influenced young Sujata, planting the seeds for her future in civil service.
From an early age, Sujata displayed a remarkable aptitude for learning. She pursued her schooling and higher education in Chandigarh, where her intellectual curiosity found a perfect outlet in history. Enrolling at Punjab University, she excelled in her Master’s degree program, topping her class and earning a gold medal—a recognition that underscored her academic prowess and foreshadowed her future achievements. This solid educational foundation equipped her with the analytical skills and historical perspective that would later define her approach to governance.
Stepping into the IAS: A Career Begins
At the age of 22, Sujata Saunik achieved a milestone that many only dream of—she cleared the rigorous UPSC Civil Services Examination in 1987, securing her entry into the prestigious Indian Administrative Service. Assigned to the Maharashtra cadre, she embarked on a journey that would span over three decades, marked by a series of challenging roles and transformative contributions.
Her career kicked off in 1989 as an Assistant Collector in Aurangabad, a bustling district in Maharashtra. This initial posting immersed her in the nitty-gritty of district administration, from land revenue to public welfare, offering her a firsthand glimpse into the lives of the people she would serve. It was here that Sujata honed her ability to connect with communities, a skill that would become a hallmark of her leadership.
A Dynamic Career: From Local to Global Impact
Sujata’s early years in the IAS were a whirlwind of diverse assignments that shaped her into a versatile administrator. She served as the Chief Officer of the Urban Development Department in Jalna, tackling urban planning challenges with a keen eye for detail. Her career soon took an international turn when she was appointed Deputy District Election Officer in the United Nations Mission in Cambodia. This role thrust her into a complex, global arena, where she ensured fair electoral processes amidst post-conflict reconstruction—a testament to her adaptability and composure under pressure.
Her international experience didn’t end there. Sujata later served as a Civil Affairs Officer in Kosovo, further expanding her horizons. Working in a region marked by ethnic tensions and rebuilding efforts, she gained invaluable insights into global governance and crisis management, perspectives that enriched her approach to public administration back home.
Returning to Maharashtra, Sujata took on increasingly significant roles. As Municipal Commissioner of Nashik, she spearheaded urban development projects that enhanced the city’s infrastructure and quality of life. Her tenure in the state headquarters saw her heading critical departments like Skill Development, Public Health, and Financial Reform. In each position, she blended empathy with efficiency, earning accolades for her ability to deliver results while keeping people at the heart of her policies.
A Game-Changer: The e-Aushadhi Project
One of Sujata’s standout achievements came through her leadership in the e-Aushadhi project, a digital platform designed to streamline drug distribution across Maharashtra’s healthcare system. This innovative initiative tackled inefficiencies in medicine supply chains, ensuring timely access to essential drugs for millions. Her efforts didn’t go unnoticed—the project earned the prestigious Skoch Award, recognizing it as one of India’s top 100 initiatives. This accolade highlighted Sujata’s knack for embracing technology to solve real-world problems, cementing her reputation as a forward-thinking administrator.
Breaking Barriers: Maharashtra’s First Woman Chief Secretary
In July 2024, Sujata Saunik reached the zenith of her career when she was appointed Chief Secretary of Maharashtra, becoming the first woman to hold this coveted position in the state’s history. This milestone was not just a personal victory but a historic leap for gender equality in Indian bureaucracy. Overseeing the state’s administrative machinery from Mumbai, she now plays a pivotal role in shaping Maharashtra’s policies and driving its development agenda.
Her path to this position was not without hurdles. Despite being the senior-most officer in her batch, Sujata was overlooked twice for the Chief Secretary role, including in 2023 when her husband, Manoj Saunik—also an IAS officer from the 1987 batch—took the post. Yet, her perseverance shone through. When the opportunity finally arrived, she stepped into the role with grace and determination, proving that her leadership transcended gender biases and bureaucratic politics.
Leadership with Heart and Vision
Sujata’s leadership style is a rare blend of compassion and pragmatism. Throughout her career, she has prioritized public health, education, and disaster management—areas where her impact is felt most deeply. Her initiatives in maternal and child health have bolstered healthcare delivery, reducing mortality rates and improving lives. During natural calamities, her strategic planning has been a lifeline for affected communities, showcasing her ability to manage crises with calm and competence.
As Chief Secretary, Sujata is poised to steer Maharashtra toward a future of sustainable growth and inclusivity. Her vision includes leveraging technology, enhancing infrastructure, and addressing pressing challenges like economic recovery and environmental sustainability. Her appointment has also sparked hope among women in the civil services, breaking traditional barriers and setting a new standard for leadership.
Personal Life: A Partnership in Service
Behind Sujata’s professional success lies a personal story of partnership and mutual support. Married to Manoj Saunik, a retired IAS officer, she forms part of a unique power couple in Indian bureaucracy. Together, they have balanced the demands of public service with a shared commitment to the nation. Their relationship reflects a deep respect for each other’s careers, amplifying their collective impact on governance.
Legacy and Inspiration
Smt. Sujata Saunik’s journey—from a gold medalist in Chandigarh to Maharashtra’s trailblazing Chief Secretary—is a narrative of grit, grace, and groundbreaking achievements. Her career, spanning over 30 years, embodies the values of integrity, innovation, and service. As she leads Maharashtra into the future, her legacy is already taking shape—not just in the policies she implements, but in the countless individuals she inspires, particularly women aspiring to leadership roles.
Sujata Saunik is more than an IAS officer; she is a beacon of possibility, a symbol of what dedication and excellence can achieve. Her story reminds us that true leadership is about building bridges, breaking ceilings, and serving with a heart wide open. As Maharashtra looks ahead under her stewardship, one thing is clear: Sujata Saunik’s name will resonate for generations as a pioneer who redefined governance with humanity and vision.