Who is Pralhad Joshi, the new education minister? A look at his education, career, political journey

Senior BJP leader Pralhad Joshi has been entrusted with the additional charge of the Union Ministry of Education, succeeding Dharmendra Pradhan, who resigned on Saturday, taking moral responsibility for the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy.The appointment comes at a crucial time for the ministry, which is implementing a series of examination reforms following the controversy. Along with the Education Ministry, Joshi will continue to handle his existing portfolios of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and New and Renewable Energy.Soon after assuming the additional responsibility, Joshi said he accepted the role with "a sense of duty and humility" and pledged to work towards further strengthening India's education system."I accept this responsibility with a sense of duty and humility. I am thankful to the Prime Minister. In the last four to five years, Dharmendra Pradhan implemented the National Education Policy and several important initiatives. Under the guidance of the Prime Minister, I will work to the best of my ability and fulfill my responsibilities with dedication," he said.Pralhad Joshi's educational qualificationsBorn on November 27, 1962, in Karnataka's Bijapur, Pralhad Joshi completed his early education in Hubballi. He attended the Railway School for his primary education before studying at New English School for his secondary schooling.For higher education, Joshi graduated from Shri Kadasiddheshwar Arts College, Hubballi, where he earned a bachelor's degree in the arts. Before entering full-time politics, he was associated with business and later emerged as a prominent BJP leader in Karnataka.Political careerA five-time Lok Sabha MP from Karnataka's Dharwad constituency, Joshi has represented the seat continuously since 2004. Over the years, he has held several key positions in both the party and the Union government.From 2019 to 2024, he served as the Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Coal, and Mines. Following the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, he was assigned the portfolios of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and New and Renewable Energy.As the renewable energy minister, he has overseen major government initiatives, including the National Green Hydrogen Mission, PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, PM-KUSUM, and efforts to expand India's renewable energy capacity.Why his appointment is significantJoshi takes charge of the Education Ministry at a time when it is under intense public scrutiny following the NEET-UG paper leak. The Centre has already announced reforms, including restructuring the National Testing Agency (NTA), tightening anti-paper leak measures, and introducing computer-based testing for NEET from 2027.As the new education minister, Joshi will be responsible for overseeing these reforms, monitoring the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) and restoring confidence in the country's entrance examination system.Get the latest Education News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.