Sujata Saunik is an accomplished Indian bureaucrat known for contributing to public administration and governance. She is an IAS Officer from the 1987 batch. Sujata Saunik became the first woman in the state’s 64-year-old history to be chief Secretary of Maharashtra succeeding Nitin Kareer who retired as the chief secretary on 30th June. Her contributions to public health, medical education, and the welfare of women and children are particularly noteworthy.
Full Name: Sujata Saunik
Date of Birth: June 15, 1965
Birthplace: Punjab
Nationality: Indian
Profession: Civil Service, IAS
Sujata Saunik Career Highlights
- Senior Positions in Maharashtra: Sujata Saunik has served in several high-profile positions within the Maharashtra state government. Her roles have included Principal Secretary of various departments such as Public Health, Medical Education, and Women and Child Development. In these capacities, she has played a crucial role in shaping and implementing policies that impact millions of people.
- Public Health Initiatives: One of her notable contributions has been in the field of public health. She has been involved in initiatives aimed at improving healthcare infrastructure, accessibility, and services, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Her work has helped in the implementation of health schemes and programs that have benefited many.
- Women and Child Development: In her role as Principal Secretary of Women and Child Development, Sujata Saunik has focused on policies and programs that support the welfare and development of women and children. Her efforts have been geared towards improving educational opportunities, healthcare services, and social welfare for these groups.
- Medical Education: As the Principal Secretary of Medical Education, she has contributed to enhancing the quality of medical education and training in the state. Her initiatives have included improving infrastructure in medical colleges and hospitals and promoting research and development in the medical field.
- Administrative Reforms: Beyond her departmental roles, Sujata Saunik has been a proponent of administrative reforms aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of governance. She has advocated for the use of technology and innovation in public administration to streamline processes and enhance service delivery. He served four years as Advisor and Joint Secretary, National Disaster Management Authority, Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. of India handling a range of responsibilities- office administration of the authority including setting the agenda for high-level meetings with the Prime Minister and Chairman of the Authority and the Advisory Board.
- She was on deputation to the United Nations mission in Kosovo from 2000-2005. Worked as Municipal Administrator of the second largest town in Kosovo-Prizren.During this assignment, implemented a large number of projects for the construction of housing and public infrastructure like schools, hospitals, water and sanitation works, markets, and community buildings in two municipalities of Kosovo- Prizren and Obilic.
Educational Background
Ms. Sujata Saunik completed her early schooling, college, and university in Chandigarh and was also awarded a gold medal as she topped Punjab University in her Master’s in History.
Sujata Saunik Husband
Her husband Manoj Saunik, who also comes from the batch 1987, Currently, Manoj Saunik is the Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister.
Sujata Saunik is considered a role model for many aspiring public servants. Her leadership style is characterized by a focus on results, transparency, and accountability. She is known for her ability to bring together diverse stakeholders and drive collaborative efforts toward common goals.
