Senior BJP leader Pralhad Joshi formally assumed charge as the Union Education Minister on Sunday, days after being entrusted with the additional responsibility following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan. With the official takeover, Joshi will now oversee key areas including school education, higher education, national entrance examinations and the functioning of premier educational institutions across the country.
Education Ministry Confirms New Appointment
The Ministry of Education announced Joshi’s assumption of office by releasing photographs of the swearing-in process, confirming that he has officially taken over the portfolio. Besides heading the Education Ministry, Joshi will continue to serve as Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Minister for New and Renewable Energy.
Soon after taking charge, Joshi shared a message on X expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for placing confidence in him.
“Today, I assumed charge as the Union Minister for Education,” he posted, adding that he had accepted the responsibility “with humility and a deep sense of duty.”
Promises to Build on Existing Education Reforms
Addressing the media, Joshi said he would continue working to strengthen the education sector under the Prime Minister’s leadership and highlighted the progress made through the National Education Policy (NEP).
“I accept this responsibility with a sense of duty and humility. I am thankful to the Prime Minister. In the last 12 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, many historic achievements have been made. In the last four to five years, Dharmendra Pradhan also implemented the National Education Policy, and several important initiatives were undertaken. The country has made significant progress in the new education system. Under the guidance of the Prime Minister, I will work to the best of my ability and fulfil my responsibilities with dedication,” Joshi said.
Pays Tribute to Dharmendra Pradhan
Joshi also acknowledged the contribution of his predecessor, praising Dharmendra Pradhan for spearheading major reforms in the education sector, including the implementation of NEP 2020.
In a post on X, he described Pradhan’s tenure as transformative and said his decision to resign would not diminish his role in nation-building.
“Shri @dpradhanbjp Ji has had an illustrious political career spanning decades. His commitment to the development of the Nation will always be remembered. His tenure witnessed the successful implementation of NEP 2020 along with over 100 big and small reforms in the field of education. Placing larger interest above everything else, Shri Pradhan Ji’s decision to step down does not in anyway stop him from contributing to the Nation’s development. Our paths will cross again in the line of development of the Nation,” Joshi wrote.
Joshi’s appointment comes at a crucial time as the Education Ministry continues to address issues related to entrance examinations and implement reforms aimed at strengthening India’s education system.
