Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel's new cabinet will take oath today. Many new faces, including Rivaba Jadeja, may become ministers at the ceremony to be held at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. The BJP is working on a new strategy ahead of the 2027 assembly elections.
Gujarat Cabinet 2025: Today marks a significant day in Gujarat politics. The cabinet expansion of the state government, led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, is scheduled to take place today at 11 AM at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. Governor Acharya Devvrat will administer the oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers. The BJP has decided to make this major change keeping in mind preparations for the 2027 assembly elections.
All Ministers Had Resigned
Following a meeting at the Chief Minister's residence on Thursday, the entire cabinet, with the exception of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, collectively resigned. This move intensified political activity across the state. However, this step is widely considered part of an organizational strategy. According to sources, the BJP aims to bring forward new faces and youth leadership to demonstrate renewed energy and confidence among the public.
BJP's Strategy: Preparation for 2027 Assembly Elections
This move by Gujarat BJP is not merely administrative but also part of a political strategy. The party has already begun strengthening its base for the 2027 assembly elections. In several regions of the state, opposition parties, especially the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), have increased their influence. Therefore, the BJP is working on a plan to include new faces to establish a b foothold in areas like Saurashtra and South Gujarat.
Cabinet May Consist of 27 Members
Bhupendra Patel's new cabinet is expected to include a total of 27 members. This time, the Saurashtra region will be given special importance in the expansion. There is discussion within the party that, considering the increasing influence of the Aam Aadmi Party in Saurashtra, emphasis has been placed on including popular and influential leaders from that region in the cabinet.
4-5 Ministers May Get Another Chance
Although the entire cabinet resigned, 4 to 5 former ministers are likely to be given another opportunity. According to party sources, some senior and experienced leaders will be reinstated to ensure administrative continuity.
These Names May Be Included in the Cabinet
There is talk of many old and new faces being included in the new cabinet. Names of leaders from Saurashtra and South Gujarat to North Gujarat have emerged.
The following names are being discussed for the list of potential ministers –
- Jayesh Radadiya: A popular leader from the Saurashtra region, who may be included to maintain regional balance.
- Shankar Chaudhary: A b organizational leader who may get another opportunity due to his administrative experience.
- Uday Kangad: A long-active party leader, known for his development work.
- Amit Thakar: A young face, who may also find a place in the cabinet due to his active role in the organization.
- Amit Popatlal Shah: An influential leader from Ahmedabad, holding an important position in the party.
Hira Solanki, Mahesh Kaswala, Kaushik Vekariya, Rivaba Jadeja, Arjun Modhwadia – the party has also deliberated on all these names.
All Eyes on Rivaba Jadeja
The most discussed name in this expansion is Rivaba Jadeja, wife of Indian cricketer Ravindra Jadeja. Rivaba became an MLA for the first time in 2022 and enjoys b public support. The party is preparing to bring her forward as a symbol of women's empowerment and youth leadership. It is believed that including Rivaba in the cabinet could benefit the BJP in the Saurashtra region.
These Veterans May Also Be Under Consideration
In the new cabinet, the BJP may also place its trust in experienced veteran faces. Some prominent names include –
- Aniruddh Dave (Mandvi-Kutch)
- Sandeep Desai (Choryasi)
- Sangeeta Patil (Limbayat)
- Pankaj Desai (Nadiad)
Furthermore, the party's confidence has grown in leaders who defected from the Congress to the BJP. Alpesh Thakor, Hardik Patel, and C.J. Chavda may also receive ministerial berths. Through this, the party aims to convey that there are equal opportunities for both old and new leaders within the organization.
Special Focus on Saurashtra Region
The role of the Saurashtra region has always been crucial in Gujarat's political dynamics. In recent elections, the BJP faced challenges in this area. After the rise of the Aam Aadmi Party, the vote bank here began to fragment. Thus, the party now aims to strengthen its base in this region by including influential leaders from Saurashtra.
Emphasis on Direct Public Connection
The new cabinet is expected to establish direct communication with the public. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel himself has stated on several occasions that his government's focus will be on "public service and development." Implementing policies at the grassroots level and providing more opportunities to the youth will be the main agenda of this cabinet.
Oath-Taking Ceremony Program
The oath-taking ceremony for the cabinet expansion will be held today at 11 AM at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. Governor Acharya Devvrat will preside over the ceremony and administer the oath of office and secrecy to the new ministers. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, senior BJP leaders, organizational office-bearers, and several administrative officials will be present at the ceremony.
