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The four leaders are Pankaja Munde (BJP), Aditi Tatkare (NCP), Madhuri Misal (BJP) and Meghna Bordikar (BJP). While Munde and Tatkare took oath as ministers, Misal and Bordikar will be MoS
(Clockwise from top left) Pankaja Munde, Aditi Tatkare, Madhuri Misal and Meghna Bordikar. (X)
In a significant step for Maharashtra’s political landscape, the Mahayuti government inducted four women leaders – Pankaja Munde, Aditi Tatkare, Madhuri Misal and Meghna Bordikar – into its newly expanded cabinet during a swearing-in ceremony held at Raj Bhavan in Nagpur on Sunday.
A total of 39 ministers, representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction, took the oath of office. Of the 39 ministers, 33 took the oath as cabinet ministers, while six assumed roles as ministers of state (MoS).
The ceremony was presided over by Governor CV Radhakrishnan, in the presence of chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CMs Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde.
The cabinet expansion aimed to balance regional aspirations, accommodate caste-based dynamics, and introduce fresh leadership, reflecting the government’s focus on inclusivity and efficiency.
THE FOUR NEW WOMEN MINISTERS
Munde, a seasoned politician and a popular leader within the BJP, made a strong comeback to the cabinet as a senior minister. Known for her administrative acumen and grassroots appeal, her induction is expected to strengthen the party’s rural outreach and reinforce its connection with marginalised communities.
Tatkare, from the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction, returned to the cabinet as a senior minister. Having previously managed portfolios such as tourism and water resources, Tatkare is recognised for her administrative capabilities, and her reappointment reflects the faction’s reliance on experienced leaders.
Meanwhile, Misal, a first-time minister representing Pune, took the oath as a minister of state. With a track record of championing social welfare and women’s empowerment, her inclusion highlights the BJP’s intent to enhance urban representation in the cabinet.
Another new entrant, Meghna Bordikar, also assumed the role of a minister of state. A dynamic and emerging leader, Bordikar’s induction underscores the BJP’s commitment to grooming fresh talent and providing a platform for young politicians.
While seasoned leaders like Munde and Tatkare bring continuity, newcomers like Madhuri Misal and Meghna Bordikar represent a push for rejuvenation.
SENIORS LEFT OUT
Interestingly, the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) did not include any women leaders in the Cabinet, sparking criticism and raising questions about its approach to gender inclusivity. This omission has become a talking point in political circles.
While several leaders celebrated their induction, some notable names were left out of the cabinet. From the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction, senior leaders such as Chhagan Bhujbal and Dilip Walse Patil were excluded despite their experience and influence. Similarly, Deepak Kesarkar from the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) did not find a place in the cabinet, a decision that surprised many within his party.
The expansion also brought new opportunities for several leaders.
NEW FACES
Chandrashekhar Bawankule, the BJP’s state president, secured a cabinet berth after being overlooked in earlier expansions.
Dhananjay Munde of the NCP retained his ministerial role, reinforcing his importance within the faction.
Pratap Sarnaik, a loyalist of the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), finally earned a place in the cabinet after a long wait.
This Cabinet reshuffle comes days before the winter session of the Maharashtra assembly begins on December 16. The allocation of portfolios in the coming days will further clarify the government’s strategy and the roles these leaders will play in addressing Maharashtra’s pressing issues. With this new line-up, the spotlight will now shift to the ministers’ ability to deliver on their promises and meet public expectations.
