image credits: Odisha Ray
Manoj Ahuja, a 1990-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Odisha cadre, has emerged as a pivotal figure in Odisha’s administrative landscape. Born in Haryana, Ahuja’s early life was marked by a commitment to academic excellence. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) from Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala, an MBA from Punjab University, Chandigarh, and a Master’s in Public Administration (International Development) from Harvard University, USA.
Ahuja’s early career in Odisha showcased his dedication. Serving in key roles such as Secretary of departments like Cooperation, Steel and Mines, Sports and Youth Affairs, and Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare, he gained deep insights into the state’s socio-economic fabric. His tenure as Commissioner of Commercial Taxes further proved his ability to manage critical fiscal responsibilities. These formative years in Odisha laid the groundwork for his later contributions on both the state and national stages.
Manoj Ahuja’s Leadership at the National Level
Ahuja’s administrative prowess extended beyond Odisha during his central deputation from 2017. He held significant positions, including Special Director at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie, where he contributed to training future civil servants. In 2020, he was appointed Chairman of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). Tasked with overseeing the completion of board examinations for over 30 lakh students, Ahuja demonstrated exceptional leadership in ensuring academic continuity under strict social distancing norms during the COVID-19 pandemic. His tenure at CBSE was marked by professionalism and the introduction of innovative training modules.
Later, as Union Agriculture Secretary, Ahuja played a crucial role in shaping policies to support India’s agricultural sector. He was repatriated to Odisha in 2024, at the state government’s request. Appointed as Odisha’s Chief Secretary on July 1, 2024, he became the first non-Odia to hold this position in two decades, a testament to his administrative credibility and the trust placed in him by the state’s leadership.
How is Manoj Ahuja Driving Odisha’s Economic Transformation?
As Chief Secretary, one of Manoj Ahuja’s most significant contributions has been steering the State Level Single Window Clearance Authority (SLSWCA) meetings, which have approved transformative projects to bolster the state’s economy. In September 2024, under his chairmanship, the 131st SLSWCA meeting greenlit 31 projects worth Rs. 4,954.26 crore across sectors such as mechanical and electrical capital goods, food processing, biofuels, green energy, and pharmaceuticals. These initiatives are projected to create 24,162 jobs.
In March 2025, Ahuja oversaw another milestone with the approval of 19 industrial projects valued at Rs. 6,117 crore. Spanning 10 sectors, including biotechnology, steel, food processing, and green energy, these projects generate over 17,286 employment opportunities across 11 districts, such as Khurda, Sambalpur, and Jajpur. Notable initiatives include a Rs. 900 crore biocoal plant by Transpacific Engineering in Sambalpur and an Rs. 854.32 crore vaccine manufacturing unit by Sapigen Biologix in Khurda. These efforts highlight Ahuja’s focus on sustainable development and inclusive growth.
Contribution Beyond Administrative Proficiency
Manoj Ahuja’s tenure as Chief Secretary is defined by his ability to balance administrative efficiency with strategic foresight. His diverse experience helped in managing national education systems & driving industrial growth in Odisha. Despite being due for superannuation in December 2024, discussions about a potential extension reflect his indispensable role in the state’s governance. Ahuja’s advice has been critical in shaping the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government’s agenda in Odisha, particularly in selecting senior IAS officers and district collectors to execute its election promises.
