NEW DELHI, June 29: Intense speculation is building in political circles about a potential reshuffle and expansion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Union Council of Ministers, with indications pointing to changes possibly occurring in early July, ahead of the Parliament’s Monsoon Session.
While there has been no official confirmation from the government, sources suggest the exercise could serve as a mid-term reset for the Modi 3.0 government, focusing on addressing performance concerns, inducting fresh faces, and strengthening the BJP’s position ahead of upcoming state assembly elections and the 2029 Lok Sabha polls.
The buzz gained momentum following Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with President Droupadi Murmu last week, along with other high-level engagements involving key BJP leaders like Amit Shah. Political observers view these as preparatory signals for a cabinet rejig.
Reports highlight that the reshuffle may involve dropping or reassigning underperforming ministers, portfolio changes, and greater representation for states like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Punjab, which face elections next year.
Some Union ministers could shift to organisational roles within the BJP, coinciding with the announcement of a new party team under president Nitin Nabin.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s position has come under particular scrutiny amid controversies surrounding the NEET paper leak and irregularities in the CBSE system. There is also talk of broader changes in key ministries to recalibrate governance.
This would mark the first major overhaul since the Modi government returned to power for a third term in June 2024. The timing aligns with the government nearing the midpoint of its current tenure, aiming to inject new energy and address public concerns on issues like education, economy, and administrative efficiency.
No concrete list of “in” or “out” has been confirmed, and all developments remain speculative at this stage. The government is expected to finalise decisions soon, potentially in tandem with broader BJP organisational revamps.
As political Delhi awaits clarity, the impending changes are being seen as a strategic move to revitalise the NDA’s approach in the second half of its term.
This development comes as the NDA government prepares to tackle key legislative priorities in the upcoming Monsoon Session, including economic reforms and addressing public grievances. Political watchers will be closely monitoring official announcements in the coming days. (Agencies)
