Assam's New Cabinet: Anticipated Ministers and Upcoming Swearing-In Ceremony
Preparations for Assam's New Government
File image of Assam Chief Minister-elect Himanta Biswa Sarma (Photo: @himantabiswa/X)
Guwahati, May 11: As the BJP-led NDA government in Assam prepares for its third consecutive term, caretaker Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Monday that the new cabinet is expected to comprise 18 to 19 ministers.
During a press briefing, Sarma mentioned that discussions regarding the cabinet's final structure would commence after the arrival of BJP national president Nitin Nabin in Guwahati later that evening.
"Currently, there is no official list of MLAs who will be part of the cabinet. I envision around 18 to 19 members for the new Assam cabinet, and I have all the names in mind," Sarma stated.
However, he was cautious about confirming whether new individuals would be included in the ministry.
"I cannot provide any details until I have a proper discussion with Nitin Nabin, as I must adhere to the party's overall direction," he added.
Sarma noted that Nabin is anticipated to arrive in Guwahati around 10 PM on Monday, after which significant discussions regarding cabinet positions and portfolio allocations are expected to take place.
"Nitin Nabin will reach Guwahati by 10 PM today, and only then can I discuss the cabinet positions. I will accompany him from the airport to his accommodation, and discussions will likely occur during that time," Sarma explained.
He also mentioned that the MLAs chosen for ministerial roles would be informed the following morning.
"The MLAs selected for the cabinet will learn about their appointments only tomorrow morning at 7 AM," he confirmed.
The swearing-in ceremony is set to commence at approximately 11 AM on Tuesday, with the attendance of prominent NDA leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Sarma indicated that Prime Minister Modi is expected to arrive in Guwahati around 10:30 PM on Monday, with several other Union leaders scheduled to arrive later that evening.
"As far as I know, Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers from 22 states will be present at the ceremony. In addition to NDA Chief Ministers, the Chief Minister of Mizoram will also be in attendance," Sarma added.
The event is also expected to attract diplomats, religious leaders, and industrialists from across the nation.
"A significant gathering will occur tomorrow, featuring ambassadors from various foreign nations, Satradhikars from different satras in Assam, party workers, and BJP booth committee presidents," he stated.
Sarma mentioned that the regular operations of his government would officially commence on May 13.
"My regular office work will start from May 13," he noted.
Regarding the roadmap for the next five years, the BJP leader emphasized that the NDA government would fulfill the promises outlined in its election manifesto.
"Our election manifesto is already public. Clarity will emerge after the swearing-in tomorrow. We have five years ahead of us, and we will proceed with our plans accordingly," Sarma remarked.
Meanwhile, Assam BJP president Dilip Saikia stated that the event would be open to the public, with no attendance restrictions.
"Workers from various regions of the state will certainly participate. There are no restrictions or special passes needed for individuals to attend. Everyone is welcome to join the ceremony," he affirmed.