Mona Khandhar

Ms. Mona Khandhar is currently holding the crucial role of Principal Secretary, Science and Technology, Government of Gujarat. In this capacity, she is responsible for formulating and executing state policies in dynamic cutting-edge domains such as IT/ITeS, Semiconductors, Electronics, and Biotechnology. This position allows her to make substantial contributions to Gujarat’s digital and technological landscape, propelling advancements in critical sectors and fostering innovation for the state’s overall growth and development.

A distinguished civil servant within the esteemed Indian Administrative Service (IAS), boasting an extensive career spanning over 25 years, Ms. Khandhar has adeptly navigated a spectrum of challenging roles at various levels of governance. Securing the 7th rank nationwide and emerging as the top-ranking female candidate in the Civil Service Examination attests to her commitment to excellence.

Presently, she also serves as the Principal Secretary of the Panchayat, Rural Housing & Rural Development Department, where she is entrusted with shaping policy decisions for the development of local self-government in rural areas. Her responsibilities extend to planning, making policy and implementation, and issuance of guidelines.

In addition to her current roles, she concurrently serves as the Principal Secretary and Commissioner for Revenue Inspection in the Revenue Department. Throughout her illustrious career, she has undertaken noteworthy assignments, including serving as the Nodal Officer for the G20 Summit (2022-23), holding the position of Principal Secretary (Economic Affairs) in the Finance Department (2022-23), acting as Secretary & Commissioner (Urban Development Department) from 2013 to 2015, and fulfilling the responsibilities of District Magistrate and Collector from 2004 to 2006. Notably, she also represented the nation as Minister (Economics & Commerce) in a Joint Secretary to Govt. of India equivalent position at Tokyo, Japan (2019-22).

Educationally, she completed her Mason Fellowship and MPA in International Economics from Harvard Kennedy School. She pursued her post-graduation studies at Syracuse University, obtaining a degree in EMPA (International Trade Finance). Prior to these accomplishments, she graduated from the University of Mumbai with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, specializing in Financial Accounting, Cost Accounting, and Computer Programming. Her academic background complements her professional expertise, underscoring her commitment to continuous learning and excellence in public service.