Pralhad Joshi named new education minister

NEW DELHI: Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi, the new Union education minister, is one of BJP’s most experienced parliamentarians and has been in PM Narendra Modi’s Cabinet since 2019. The five-time MP from Karnataka also served as president of BJP’s Karnataka unit and played a key role in expanding party’s footprint in the state before coming to the Centre.Known for his low-profile yet effective style, Joshi has handled important parliamentary and ministerial responsibilities over the years. Before his latest assignment as education minister, he was in charge of consumer affairs, food and public distribution, and new and renewable energy ministries, portfolios that will stay with him.In 2019, he was sworn-in as cabinet minister and given charge of the portfolios of parliamentary affairs, coal and mines until 2024. As parliamentary affairs minister, he handled the passage of key legislation, including the abrogation of Article 370 and the Women’s Reservation Bill.“Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, I will work to the best of my ability and fulfil my responsibilities with dedication,” Joshi told reporters.