Hailing from the border district of Poonch in Jammu & Kashmir, IAS officer Zaffar Iqbal’s journey is one of hard work and focus. A 2017-batch IAS officer of the Himachal Pradesh cadre, he currently serves as the Municipal Commissioner of Dharamshala Municipal Corporation and the Chief Executive Officer of the Waqf Board. He also oversees the Smart City projects in Dharamshala, ensuring infrastructure development keeps pace with the city’s needs.
Zaffar’s early education took place in a government school in Poonch, where he studied until the fifth grade. He then secured admission to Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Sarol in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, through a competitive entrance exam. His academic journey led him to the prestigious National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur, where he pursued civil engineering. Before clearing the UPSC Civil Services Examination on his fourth attempt, he worked as an assistant engineer in the Public Works Department.
A CIVIL ENGINEER TURNED ADMINISTRATOR
Having studied civil engineering and worked in infrastructure development, Zaffar always had a keen interest in public policy and governance. His understanding of urban planning has played a crucial role in his administrative approach, particularly in his work with municipal bodies. He has held key positions, including Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil) in Sarkaghat, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development) in Solan, and Commissioner of the Solan Municipal Corporation.
TACKLING CHALLENGES HEAD-ON
As the head of the Smart City projects in Dharamshala, Zaffar has been instrumental in addressing gaps in urban infrastructure. He has focused on resolving long-pending civic issues, such as open ducts, road repairs, and incomplete urban projects. His hands-on approach to governance and ability to swiftly act on public grievances have earned him recognition among the people of Dharamshala.
GUIDING THE NEXT GENERATION
Despite his demanding administrative responsibilities, Zaffar remains committed to mentoring students. Drawing from his own experiences of navigating the challenges of competitive exams, he frequently visits schools to offer career guidance. Having studied in a government school himself, he understands the struggles of students from modest backgrounds and aims to inspire them to aim higher.
“Besides working hard, you need to have a lot of perseverance to succeed in the UPSC exams. Time management is the key,” he advises young aspirants. He encourages students to stay focused, even when faced with setbacks, reminding them that persistence is often the deciding factor in achieving success.
BALANCING GOVERNANCE AND PUBLIC SERVICE
Colleagues and officials who have worked with Zaffar admire his ability to maintain a balance between administrative efficiency and public engagement. His clear communication and problem-solving approach have made him an approachable figure in governance. Whether handling municipal affairs, leading developmental projects, or interacting with citizens, he brings a sense of accountability and purpose to his role.
LOOKING AHEAD
With a career that continues to evolve, Zaffar Iqbal remains committed to making a difference in governance. His work in urban development and civic administration highlights his ability to bridge policy-making with on-ground execution. As he continues to take on new challenges, his leadership is shaping the future of Dharamshala’s urban landscape while inspiring a new generation of aspiring civil servants.
