Blog

Introduction

The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) has produced some of the finest bureaucrats who have shaped India’s governance and policies. Among them, Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, a 1996-batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, has built a reputation for his dedication, adaptability, and leadership skills. Over nearly three decades of service, he has served in crucial roles both at the state and central levels.

In January 2025, he was appointed as the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), a position that marks a significant step in his illustrious career. From handling health and agriculture policies to now ensuring aviation safety, Faiz Ahmed Kidwai’s journey is a testament to the versatility and resilience of the Indian civil service.

Early Life and Education

Details about Faiz Ahmed Kidwai’s early family background are not widely publicized, as he is known to maintain a low personal profile. However, what is evident is his commitment to academics and service, which eventually led him to successfully clear the UPSC Civil Services Examination—one of the toughest competitive exams in the country.

Joining the IAS in 1996, Kidwai became part of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, where his training and early postings laid the foundation for his career. Like most IAS officers, he underwent his initial training at the prestigious Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA), Mussoorie, where he was trained in administrative law, governance, public policy, and district management.

Administrative Journey in Madhya Pradesh

As part of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, Kidwai held several district-level and state-level positions. His tenure as District Collector in multiple regions allowed him to closely interact with grassroots governance, implement welfare programs, and oversee development schemes.

One of his most significant assignments came when he served as Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare Department, Madhya Pradesh, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Managing healthcare resources, vaccination drives, and public communication during a global health crisis was one of the toughest tests for any bureaucrat. Kidwai’s leadership helped strengthen the state’s response to the pandemic.

Later, he was transferred to the Food & Civil Supplies Department, where he worked on streamlining public distribution systems (PDS), ensuring transparency and improving efficiency in ration delivery to millions of citizens.

National-Level Roles and Agriculture Contributions

At the central government level, Faiz Ahmed Kidwai played an important role in the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. He was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Rainfed Area Authority (NRAA), a key institution responsible for policy planning and implementation in rainfed and dryland agriculture.

In this role, he focused on sustainable farming practices, resource conservation, and improving farmer incomes in regions dependent on rain-fed agriculture. His policies emphasized climate resilience, an area critical to India’s food security. His performance in this position earned him an extension in 2024, reflecting the trust placed in his leadership by the central government.

Appointment as Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)

The highlight of Faiz Ahmed Kidwai’s career came in January 2025, when the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved his posting as the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

This role is of national significance, as the DGCA is India’s chief regulatory body for civil aviation. His appointment came at a time when India’s aviation sector is witnessing rapid expansion, with more passengers, new airlines, and increasing international routes.

As DGCA chief, his responsibilities include:

• Ensuring aviation safety and security.
• Addressing pilot fatigue and rest norms.
• Overseeing airline operations and regulatory compliance.
• Implementing policies for sustainable aviation growth.
• Strengthening India’s reputation in global aviation standards.

His shift from agriculture to aviation demonstrates the flexibility and multi-sectoral competence that IAS officers bring to the table.

Leadership Style and Work Ethic

Faiz Ahmed Kidwai is known among peers as a calm, decisive, and strategic administrator. Whether managing health services during a pandemic or ensuring food supply chains during crises, his approach has always been rooted in:

• Evidence-based decision making
• Collaboration with stakeholders
• Long-term policy vision

He believes in strengthening institutions rather than focusing only on short-term outcomes. This makes his leadership impactful across departments and ensures continuity of reforms even after his tenure.

Contributions to Governance

Throughout his career, Kidwai has contributed to governance in three crucial areas:

1. Public Health – Strengthening medical infrastructure during COVID-19.
2. Food Security – Improving transparency in PDS and ensuring timely food supplies.
3. Agriculture Sustainability – Driving reforms in rainfed agriculture through NRAA.

Now, with his role in civil aviation, he is expected to bring the same administrative discipline and reformist vision to a sector that directly impacts millions of passengers daily.

Public Perception and Media Coverage

While not a media-savvy officer, Faiz Ahmed Kidwai has often been in the news for his appointments and policy initiatives. His career reflects the trust that both the Madhya Pradesh government and the Central Government of India have consistently placed in him.

Media outlets have highlighted his ability to adapt to diverse challenges—from agriculture to aviation—which is a rare trait even among seasoned administrators.

Lessons for Young Aspirants

For UPSC aspirants and young administrators, Kidwai’s career provides several lessons:

• Versatility is key – An IAS officer must be ready to work in any sector.
• Public service first – The focus must always be on citizen welfare.
• Policy continuity – Strong institutions ensure that reforms last beyond individual tenures.
• Adaptability – From health to aviation, challenges change, but leadership principles remain the same.

Conclusion

The journey of Faiz Ahmed Kidwai IAS is a story of dedication, adaptability, and visionary leadership. From managing district-level administration in Madhya Pradesh to now heading the DGCA, he has consistently demonstrated competence and integrity.

At a time when India’s aviation industry is rapidly expanding, his role as DGCA chief will be critical in ensuring passenger safety, operational efficiency, and global competitiveness. His career is not just a story of bureaucratic success but also an inspiration for future leaders who wish to serve India through the civil services.

External Backlinks

• Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) – Official Website
• Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) – IAS Portal