BJP in charge, focus on polls: Seven takeaways from PM Modi's largest council of ministers

Narendra Modi was sworn in as India's Prime Minister for the third consecutive term on Sunday, equalling the record set by Jawaharlal Nehru. With a 72-member team, this administration is Modi's largest, despite leading a coalition government. Contrary to expectations, forming the council of ministers was smooth, with TDP and JD(U) opting not to negotiate aggressively after BJP fell short of an absolute majority.

BJP Leads the Coalition

Despite lacking a majority and needing allies, Modi's new government clearly signals BJP’s control. Major ministries, including home, finance, defense, and foreign affairs, are expected to remain with the BJP.

Allies Seek Financial Gains

TDP and JD(U) refrained from tough negotiations, likely to secure increased government funds for their states, even without obtaining special category status for Andhra Pradesh and Bihar.

Stable Coalition Anticipated

With allies accepting BJP’s dominance in key roles, the government is expected to operate smoothly, avoiding frequent disruptions and policy changes typical of coalition governments.

Experienced Leaders in Cabinet

The inclusion of six former chief ministers in the council brings valuable administrative and policymaking experience, especially from large, complex states. However, the Prime Minister's Office will remain the central authority.

Focus on Upcoming Elections

With Haryana, Maharashtra, and Jharkhand facing elections this year, ministerial appointments from these states suggest BJP’s intent to maintain its winning social engineering strategies. Remarks from Praful Patel about not taking a ministerial role, made in the presence of BJP leaders, indicate efforts to maintain the Maharashtra alliance. Jharkhand appointments hint at bolstering non-tribal groups.

Absence of Muslim Ministers

Modi’s third government starts without a Muslim minister, reflecting the community’s significant support for the opposition in recent elections. This might change in the future.

Influence of Wealthy and Hindu Groups

The presence of billionaires Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani at the swearing-in ceremony shows Modi's continued ties with major industrialists despite opposition criticism of ‘crony capitalism’. The attendance of Hindu civil society groups suggests minimal concessions on BJP’s Hindutva agenda.

Caste Combinations

In Prime Minister Modi's coalition government, ministerial positions have been allocated to achieve regional balance and address caste dynamics. The new cabinet under PM Modi includes 21 ministers from the General category, 27 from the OBC (Other Backward Classes), 10 from the SC (Scheduled Caste), 5 from the ST (Scheduled Tribe), and 5 from minority communities.

Narendra Modi's third term as Prime Minister marks a significant moment in Indian politics, with his administration’s composition and strategies closely watched by supporters and critics alike.