TFP Bureau, Raipur, August 20, 2025 – The Vishnudev Sai-led government in Chhattisgarh witnessed its first cabinet expansion today, with three newly elected legislators inducted as ministers. Governor Ramen Deka administered the oath of office and secrecy to Gajendra Yadav, MLA from Durg, Rajesh Agarwal, MLA from Ambikapur, and Guru Khuswant Saheb, MLA from Arang, in a solemn ceremony held at the Chhattisgarh Mandapam of Raj Bhavan.
The induction of the three ministers takes the total strength of the Sai cabinet to 14, including the Chief Minister himself. This is the first time since the formation of the state that the cabinet has been expanded on the “Haryana formula,” ensuring broader representation and balance within the Council of Ministers. Notably, all three new ministers are first-time legislators, marking a significant generational shift in leadership and signaling the government’s intent to empower fresh faces with responsibilities of governance.
The oath-taking ceremony was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai, Deputy Chief Ministers Arun Saw and Vijay Sharma, Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, members of the existing council of ministers, MLAs, senior public representatives, Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain, Secretary to the Governor Dr. C.R. Prasanna, and other senior officials of the state administration. The ceremony, conducted with traditional dignity, was followed by congratulations and best wishes extended by the Chief Minister and senior leaders to the new ministers.
Expressing confidence in his new colleagues, Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai congratulated Gajendra Yadav, Guru Khuswant Saheb, and Rajesh Agarwal, stating that their induction would infuse new energy into the cabinet. He added that their dedication, loyalty, and commitment to public service would not only strengthen governance but also help accelerate the pace of development across the state. CM Sai emphasized that the government’s focus remains on fulfilling the aspirations of the people through collective effort, transparency, and good governance.
The Chief Minister underlined that Chhattisgarh is at a critical juncture in its 25-year journey, with development aspirations and governance challenges requiring fresh ideas and dynamic leadership. The inclusion of first-time MLAs in the cabinet, he noted, reflects the government’s commitment to provide opportunities to new representatives and expand the scope of administrative responsibility.
With today’s expansion, the cabinet now includes:
- Vishnudev Sai – Chief Minister
- Arun Saw – Deputy Chief Minister
- Vijay Sharma – Deputy Chief Minister
- O.P. Choudhary – Finance Minister
- Kedar Kashyap – Forest Minister
- Dayal Das Vaghel – Food Minister
- Tankram Verma – Sports Minister
- Lakhan Lal Devangan – Industry Minister
- Shyam Bihari Jaiswal – Health Minister
- Ramvichar Netam – Tribal Welfare Minister
- Lakshmi Rajwada – Women and Child Development Minister
- Gajendra Yadav – Minister (newly inducted)
- Rajesh Agarwal – Minister (newly inducted)
- Guru Khuswant Saheb – Minister (newly inducted)
The expansion not only broadens regional representation within the cabinet but also provides space for leaders from diverse backgrounds to contribute towards the state’s developmental roadmap. Observers note that this balancing act is in line with the government’s larger strategy to strengthen political inclusivity while maintaining administrative efficiency.
Political analysts view the induction of the three first-time MLAs as a move that reflects CM Sai’s confidence in bringing young leadership to the forefront. It is also being seen as a step towards nurturing the next generation of political leadership in Chhattisgarh, ensuring continuity and renewal within the ruling leadership structure.
Governor Ramen Deka, in his brief remarks, highlighted the significance of the oath-taking ceremony as a constitutional duty that reaffirms the commitment of ministers to uphold democratic values, maintain transparency, and prioritize public welfare.
With the cabinet expansion now complete, CM Sai expressed hope that the strengthened team will work unitedly to deliver on the promises of good governance, infrastructure growth, improved healthcare, empowerment of women and tribals, and the welfare of farmers – areas that continue to remain top priorities for his government.
The day’s events mark a milestone in the Sai government’s tenure, as the expanded cabinet prepares to steer the state through its 25th year since formation with renewed energy and focus on inclusive development.
