From Serene Valleys to Top Governance: The Story of JKAS Officer Rafiq AhmaFromd Shah

From Serene Valleys to Top Governance: The Story of JKAS Officer Rafiq AhmaFromd Shah

Kupwara | 19 September

Rafiq Ahmad Shah, a proud native of Saiwan village in Lolab Valley, Kupwara, has carved a distinguished path as an officer of the Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS). His journey from the tranquil landscapes of north Kashmir to prominent administrative roles stands as a testament to his dedication, academic rigor, and unwavering commitment to public service.

Shah’s academic journey began at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya in Kupwara, Baramulla, and later at Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab, where he studied from 6th to 12th grade between 1994 and 2000. He pursued B.Tech in Civil Engineering from NIT Srinagar and enrolled in M.Tech at IIT Roorkee, which he left midway to focus on his career. He successfully cleared the civil services examination with Public Administration and Urdu as his optional subjects, proving that determination and focus can overcome any geographical challenge.

Currently, Shah serves as Financial Advisor-cum-Chief Accounts Officer (CAO) at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, Srinagar. In this key role, he manages financial operations, institutional accountability, and resource optimization at J&K’s leading medical institute. He also serves as Vice President of the Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Finance and Accounts Society, reflecting his significant standing in the administrative community. He continues his duties at SKIMS and has not been transferred nor placed at the disposal of the General Administration Department (GAD).

Throughout his career, Shah has contributed to multiple important departments, including Technical Education, Power Development, Industries & Commerce, Health & Medical Education, Finance, and Education. His versatility, integrity, and dedication have earned him widespread respect among peers and the public alike.

Beyond his professional achievements, Shah is known for his humility, honesty, and approachable nature. Strongly connected to his roots in Lolab Valley, his rise in administration continues to motivate youth in Kupwara and across Jammu & Kashmir.

“Rafiq Ahmad Shah exemplifies how perseverance, education, and integrity can lift someone from a remote valley to the heights of governance,” remarked a colleague from the Finance Department.

Today, Shah remains a source of pride for Lolab Valley, symbolizing resilience, dedication, and hope for the next generation of Jammu & Kashmir.