Dr. Suneeta Mukherjee, a distinguished figure in both Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and International Civil Services (UNFPA), has dedicated her illustrious career to transformative leadership, advocacy, and social service across multiple domains.

Born on June 4, 1948, her early life was characterized by frequent relocations due to her father’s military postings, instilling in her a remarkable adaptability from a young age. Settling in Chandigarh, she attended Government Senior Model School in Sec 16, where despite initial challenges, she excelled in water sports like rowing and sailing, gaining recognition and prizes that shaped her confidence and resilience.

After completing her schooling, she  pursued a Master’s degree in English Literature, driven by her father’s encouragement and her own aspiration to secure a teaching position. She soon realized her passion for teaching and engaging with young minds, which marked the beginning of her career as a Lecturer at Government College for Girls, Chandigarh.

Driven by a desire to expand her impact beyond the classroom, she embarked on a remarkable journey in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1972. Over two decades, she held various pivotal roles, specializing in health and administration. Notably, she became the first woman Deputy Commissioner of Himachal Pradesh, where her innovative approaches and dedication to public service earned her widespread acclaim.

In 1994, she  transitioned to International Civil Services with UNFPA, where she continued her advocacy for health, education, gender equality, and youth empowerment across diverse cultural landscapes in Asia. Her tenure was marked by significant achievements, including raising substantial funds in Bangladesh and implementing impactful health initiatives in Sri Lanka and the Philippines.

Upon retiring from UNFPA in 2010, she  embarked on a new chapter, blending consultancy work with extensive social service engagements in health and education. She also became a certified Life Coach and a sought-after public speaker, sharing her wisdom and experiences with diverse audiences, including a notable Tedx talk on demographic challenges and opportunities.

Throughout her life, she  has exemplified resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to social causes. Despite personal challenges, such as the recent loss of her husband to Covid-19, she remains dedicated to supporting children’s education and continuing her contributions to society. Her passion for service extends to mentoring youth, advocating for gender equality, and promoting happiness and well-being in communities.

At 76 years old, her  journey continues with a focus on personal growth and further contributions to society. Fluent in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi, Bengali, and French, she remains a beacon of inspiration for future generations through her unwavering dedication to making a positive impact wherever she goes.

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