In a notable reshuffle, Shivraj Singh Chouhan has joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Cabinet 3.0, taking charge of the Ministries of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development. This marks Chouhan’s first tenure as a Union minister in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government. His appointment comes as a strategic move, reflecting his significant influence and experience within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Replacing Arjun Munda
Chouhan’s new role sees him succeeding Arjun Munda, who previously headed the Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare ministry in Modi Cabinet 2.0. The transition took place on June 10, one day after Chouhan and other key ministers were sworn in amid enthusiastic cheers.
Political Comeback and Victory
A prominent BJP figure from Madhya Pradesh, Chouhan, affectionately known as ‘mamaji’, made a significant comeback to national politics following an unexpected halt in his political journey last year. After BJP’s resounding victory in the assembly polls, Mohan Yadav was appointed as the Chief Minister, seemingly sidelining Chouhan. Defying these assumptions, Chouhan contested and won the Vidisha parliamentary seat with an overwhelming margin of over eight lakh votes, re-establishing his political prominence.
Legacy in Madhya Pradesh
During his tenure as Chief Minister, Chouhan introduced several welfare schemes that bolstered his populist image and contributed to BJP’s electoral successes in Madhya Pradesh. Initiatives like the Ladli Laxmi Yojana, Kanyadaan Yojana, Sambal Yojana, Ladli Behna Yojana, and Gaon ki Beti have particularly resonated with the electorate, especially women, ensuring continued support for the party.
Roots and Early Political Career
Born in 1959 into a Kirar farmer’s family in Jait village, Chouhan’s rise to political prominence began with his involvement in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and student politics in the 1970s and 80s. He played an active role in the underground movement against the Emergency and faced imprisonment during this period.
Parliamentary Journey
Chouhan’s formal political career began in 1990 when he was elected to the state assembly from the Budhni constituency. The following year, he became a Member of Parliament representing Vidisha, a seat he held from 1991 to 2004. As the state BJP president, he ascended to the role of Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh on November 30, 2005, a position he held until 2018 and then again from 2020 to 2023.
Educational Background
Chouhan holds a Master’s degree in Philosophy from Barkatullah Vishwavidyalaya, where he graduated as a gold medallist. His academic and political achievements have both contributed to his respected status within the BJP and among his constituents.
A New Chapter
Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s induction into the Union Cabinet marks a new chapter in his extensive political career. With his vast experience and proven track record in welfare initiatives, his leadership in the Ministries of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development is expected to bring significant advancements and continue benefiting the rural populace of India.