With the recent oath-taking ceremony of a 72-member Council of Ministers in the third term of the Modi government, it is interesting to note that this is just nine short of the maximum permissible strength of 81. This is six less than the maximum of 78 ministers the Modi government had between 2019 and 2024.
The current government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi consists of 31 cabinet ministers, five Ministers of State (with Independent Charge), and 36 ministers of state. In comparison, the outgoing Modi government had 71 ministers, including 26 Cabinet ministers, three Ministers of State (Independent Charge), and 42 Ministers of State.
Over the years, the strength of the Council of Ministers has varied, with different governments reaching different maximum limits. In May 2019, 57 ministers were sworn in, while in May 2009, the Manmohan Singh government had a maximum of 79 ministers.
It is fascinating to track the evolution of the Council of Ministers over the years, reflecting the changing political landscape in India.
Published 10 June 2024, 02:52 IST