Kulgam, Jammu & Kashmir, April 18, 2025 – Athar Aamir Ul Shafi Khan, the Deputy Commissioner of Kulgam and a 2016-batch IAS officer, has been selected to receive the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration 2024 in the category of Holistic Development of Districts. The award, to be conferred by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 21, 2025, during Civil Services Day at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, celebrates Khan’s outstanding contributions to Kulgam’s comprehensive development since taking charge in January 2024.
Khan, who previously served as Commissioner of Srinagar Municipal Corporation and CEO of Srinagar Smart City, has driven significant progress in Kulgam across healthcare, education, infrastructure, and rural livelihoods. His proactive leadership has prioritized timely project completion, efficient service delivery, and citizen-focused governance. Key initiatives include overseeing critical infrastructure projects like the Gujjar Bakerwal Hostel, Modern Slaughterhouse, and National Highway 444, ensuring high standards and adherence to deadlines. His push for digital governance has also enhanced transparency and accessibility in administrative processes.
The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances recognized Khan’s innovative and sustainable approach, which aligns with the award’s mission to honor impactful district-level governance. Born in Anantnag in September 1992, Khan achieved the second All India Rank in the 2015 UPSC Civil Services Exam. His appointment as Kulgam’s DC was met with high expectations, and his work has solidified his reputation as a dynamic administrator dedicated to inclusive growth.
The announcement has sparked pride across Kulgam, with residents expressing confidence in Khan’s vision for the district’s future. His recognition highlights the transformative potential of effective public administration in Jammu and Kashmir, setting a model for others to follow.
