Manoj Kumar Das IAS Biography, popularly known as MK Das, is one of Gujarat’s most respected senior civil servants. Belonging to the 1990 batch of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), he has earned a reputation for his integrity, innovation, and administrative excellence over three decades of public service. Currently serving as the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) in the Home Department of Gujarat, Mr. Das continues to play a key role in strengthening governance and development in the state.
Born on 20 December 1966 in Darbhanga, Bihar, Manoj Kumar Das brings together strong academic brilliance and deep administrative insight. As of 2024, he is 58 years old and is set to retire on 20 December 2026. His journey from a small town in Bihar to one of Gujarat’s top bureaucratic positions reflects a story of hard work, dedication, and public spirit.
Early Life and Education
Manoj Kumar Das IAS was born into a humble family in Darbhanga, Bihar, where he completed his early education. His academic excellence led him to pursue B.Tech. (Hons.) in Computer Science and Engineering from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur — one of India’s top engineering institutions. His technical background and analytical mindset have consistently influenced his approach to governance and policy-making.
After completing his engineering degree, he successfully cleared the Civil Services Examination, one of the toughest competitive exams in India, and joined the IAS on 20 August 1990. His home state is Bihar, but he was allotted the Gujarat cadre, where he has since built a distinguished administrative career.
Personal Life: Manoj Kumar Das IAS Biography
Beyond his professional achievements, Manoj Kumar Das’s personal life reflects strength and resilience. He was married to Mrs. Shweta Das, a supportive partner who played a key role in his life journey. Unfortunately, she passed away in March 2024 after a long battle with breast cancer. Her demise was a great personal loss to Mr. Das, yet he continues his service to society with dignity and commitment.
He is known among colleagues and friends as a grounded, empathetic, and disciplined officer who leads by example. Despite the challenges in his personal life, his dedication to public welfare remains unwavering.
Professional Journey and Career Highlights
Over the years, Manoj Kumar Das IAS has served in several key administrative roles, leaving a significant mark on Gujarat’s governance model. His leadership has been evident in areas such as public administration, energy management, urban development, and industrial growth.
Some of his most notable positions include:
- Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Home Department, Gujarat
Currently, Mr. Das oversees internal administration and public safety mechanisms in the state. His strategic leadership has been instrumental in strengthening Gujarat’s law and order framework. - Additional Chief Secretary, Revenue Department, Gujarat
In this position, he played a crucial role in revenue management, land reforms, and digital governance initiatives, ensuring transparency and efficiency in government processes. - Municipal Commissioner of Surat and Vadodara
During his tenure as Municipal Commissioner, Mr. Das introduced several reforms in urban infrastructure, public health, and sanitation. His work in Surat and Vadodara is often cited as a model for effective city governance. - Joint Managing Director, Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation (GSPC)
His tenure at GSPC reflected his ability to blend administrative leadership with business acumen, supporting energy development and industrial projects across the state. - Principal Secretary, Department of Civil Supply and Consumer Affairs
Here, he focused on improving consumer rights and ensuring efficient delivery of essential commodities to citizens. - District Development Officer, Junagadh
As DDO, Mr. Das implemented several rural development and welfare programs, emphasizing agricultural productivity and local governance. - District Collector of Porbandar, Palanpur, and Surat
In these roles, he strengthened district-level administration, disaster management, and infrastructure planning. His leadership during challenging times earned him respect from both colleagues and the public. - Deputy Municipal Commissioner, Ahmedabad
At Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, he contributed to modernization initiatives that helped improve civic services and urban living standards. - Chairman, Gujarat Industrial Investment Corporation Limited (GIIC)
Under his chairmanship, GIIC facilitated industrial growth and investment opportunities, further establishing Gujarat as one of India’s most business-friendly states.
Leadership Style and Administrative Vision
Throughout his career, Manoj Kumar Das IAS has been admired for his strategic thinking, technological orientation, and people-centric governance. His engineering background allows him to take data-driven decisions, while his administrative experience ensures those decisions translate into real impact on the ground.
Colleagues describe him as a visionary officer who believes in teamwork and innovation. His emphasis on digital governance, transparency, and accountability has helped various departments modernize operations and improve citizen services.
He also advocates for youth participation in administration, encouraging young officers to embrace technology and develop leadership qualities early in their careers. His approach to governance reflects a balance between traditional administrative ethics and modern management techniques.
Also read: Who is Manoj Kumar Das: The Visionary IAS Officer Driving Gujarat’s Growth Story
Legacy and Recognition
Over the last 30+ years of his service, MK Das IAS has become a respected name in Indian bureaucracy. His leadership in Gujarat’s Home and Revenue departments has contributed to making the state one of India’s most efficiently governed regions.
His contributions have also been recognized in various administrative circles and policy forums for fostering innovation and promoting citizen-centric development. Many consider him a role model for upcoming IAS officers and civil service aspirants.
Current Role and Future Outlook
As of 2024, Manoj Kumar Das IAS serves as the Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department, Government of Gujarat. With his retirement due on 20 December 2026, he continues to guide several key policy initiatives related to internal administration, public safety, and governance reforms.
Given his vast experience, it is expected that his insights will continue to influence administrative policy even beyond his formal retirement. His balanced approach, deep understanding of governance, and strong ethical foundation make him one of the most respected IAS officers in India today.
Conclusion
The story of Manoj Kumar Das IAS is not just a biography—it’s a testament to what commitment, education, and leadership can achieve in public service. From his humble beginnings in Bihar to becoming one of Gujarat’s top bureaucrats, his journey inspires countless young aspirants aiming to serve the nation.
His life embodies the values of integrity, innovation, and empathy — qualities that define the finest officers of the Indian Administrative Service. As he continues his service to the state and the nation, Manoj Kumar Das IAS Biography remains a shining example of excellence in governance and humanity in leadership.
