Who Is Varsha Thakur Ghuge? Maharashtra IAS Officer Wins State Energy Award for Latur

Mumbai, Maharashtra: IAS officer Varsha Thakur Ghuge has once again made headlines. She has been recognized for her outstanding work in promoting energy conservation and the use of solar power in Latur district, earning the prestigious Maharashtra State Energy Award 2024-25. The award, announced by Maharashtra’s Energy Minister and Latur’s guardian minister Shivendra Sinhraje Bhosale, will be conferred by the state government.

Latur Saves 55,000 Units of Electricity

Since taking charge as Latur’s District Collector in July 2023, Ghuge has spearheaded several initiatives to enhance energy efficiency. The district has significantly increased the use of solar energy in government offices and conducted awareness campaigns to promote electricity conservation. A notable initiative, the “Urjadut” program, engaged school students and local communities to adopt sustainable energy practices.

Latur’s Collectorate also implemented recommendations from the 2022-23 energy audit, including the installation of a 100-kilowatt solar power project, adoption of energy-saving equipment, and balanced use of traditional and non-traditional energy sources. These efforts have resulted in an annual saving of approximately 55,000 units of electricity. Ghuge’s initiatives, including her popular “Meri Beti – Mera Abhiyan” campaign, have earned her a reputation as one of Maharashtra’s most effective administrators.

About Varsha Thakur Ghuge

Born on June 10, 1970, Varsha Thakur Ghuge is a 2011-batch IAS officer of the Maharashtra cadre. She currently serves as the Collector of Latur district and has previously held positions as CEO of Nanded Zilla Parishad and Deputy Commissioner (Supply) in Aurangabad (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar).

Throughout her career, Ghuge has received numerous awards, including the Marathwada Bhushan Award (2024), COVID Warrior Award, and Best Revenue Officer Award. She holds a BA and LLB degree and hails from the Marathwada region of Maharashtra. Her husband is also a government servant.