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As Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Narendra Modi gears up for his third term, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the new government. Scheduled for Sunday, the oath-taking ceremony at the presidential palace will usher in approximately 30 ministers, their identities still under wraps but subject to intense speculation among insiders.
The 2024 elections marked a departure from the BJP’s previous electoral triumphs, necessitating negotiations with the 15-member NDA coalition to secure a parliamentary majority. While the ministerial lineup remains undisclosed, sources hint at potential cabinet members, signalling a blend of continuity and adaptation in the Modi-led administration.
Reports suggest that coalition partners such as the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal (United) (JD(U)) have sought concessions in exchange for their support, reflecting the intricate negotiations characterizing coalition politics. This shift from conventional projections underscores the complexities of coalition dynamics and the imperative for consensus-building within the NDA.
Amid speculation, crucial ministries like Home, Defence, Finance, and External Affairs are reportedly excluded from negotiation, with stalwarts like Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, S Jaishankar, and Nitin Gadkari expected to retain their roles. This strategic retention of key portfolios reaffirms the BJP’s commitment to stability and continuity in vital sectors.
Ministers likely to be included in Modi’s cabinet:
1. Ravneet Singh Bittu: Congress Member of Parliament from Ludhiana, known for his vocal stance on issues related to Punjab and agriculture.
2. Ramnath Thakur: Senior BJP leader from Bihar, with a background in social work and grassroots politics.
3. Chirag Paswan: President of Lok Janshakti Party, son of late Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan, known for his youth-centric approach to politics.
4. Jitan Ram Manjhi: Former Chief Minister of Bihar and leader of Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM), representing the aspirations of the marginalized communities.
5. Jayant Chaudhary: Leader of Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) in Uttar Pradesh, focusing on farmers’ issues and rural development.
6. Shivraj Singh Chouhan: Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, an experienced administrator with a focus on development and governance.
7. Manohar Lal Khattar: Chief Minister of Haryana, known for his initiatives in the areas of cleanliness, education, and women’s empowerment.
8. Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu: Young and dynamic BJP leader from Andhra Pradesh, representing the aspirations of the state’s youth.
9. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani: BJP leader from Telangana, known for his grassroots connect and organizational skills.
10. Ramdas Athawale: President of the Republican Party of India (Athawale), known for his advocacy for Dalit rights and social justice.
11. Dharmendra Pradhan: Senior BJP leader and Union Minister known for his role in the energy sector and reforms in oil and gas.
12. Jitin Prasad: Former Congress leader from Uttar Pradesh, known for his youth appeal and focus on education and youth empowerment.
13. CR Patil: BJP leader from Gujarat, known for his organizational skills and grassroots connect.
14. Kiren Rijiju: Union Minister of Law and Justice, known for his strong advocacy for development in the Northeast region and sports.
15. Mansukh Mandaviya: Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, known for his initiatives in healthcare and pharmaceuticals.
16. Sarbananda Sonowal: Former Chief Minister of Assam and Union Minister, known for his role in implementing the Citizenship Amendment Act and development initiatives in Assam.
17. S Jaishankar: External Affairs Minister of India, seasoned diplomat known for his role in shaping India’s foreign policy and strategic relations.
18. Nitin Gadkari: Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, known for his emphasis on infrastructure development and innovative policies.
19. HD Kumaraswamy: Former Chief Minister of Karnataka and Janata Dal (Secular) leader, known for his regional leadership and focus on agrarian issues.
20. Rao Inderjit Singh: Rao Inderjit Singh, serving as the Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, champions Haryana’s interests, with a dedicated focus on fostering industrial growth and development.
21. Krishan Pal Gurjar: Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, known for his efforts towards the welfare of marginalized communities and persons with disabilities.
Ahead of the oath-taking ceremony, newly elected parliamentarians were invited for a high tea at the Prime Minister’s residence, setting the stage for camaraderie and collaboration within the incoming government. Notable BJP leaders, including Nirmala Sitharaman, Sarbananda Sonowal, and Piyush Goyal, were among the attendees, underscoring the party’s unity and preparedness for the task ahead.
As the curtain rises on Modi’s third term, all eyes are on the BJP’s adept navigation of coalition dynamics and the ensuing governance landscape, poised to shape India’s trajectory in the years to come.