Industrialist-Turned-Politician to Spearhead Industry and NRI Affairs Portfolios
THE NEWS DOSE DESK
Chandigarh,July3,UPDATED:2.45PM
In a strategic political move, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday inducted Sanjeev Arora, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Ludhiana West, into the state Cabinet and entrusted him with two key portfolios—Industry and NRI Affairs. The induction marks the seventh expansion of the Mann-led Cabinet in just over three years of the AAP regime in Punjab.
Arora, a prominent industrialist-turned-politician and first-time MLA, is expected to bring industry-centric insight and private-sector experience to a portfolio crucial for reviving Punjab’s industrial ecosystem. His appointment is being seen as an effort to bridge the gap between the government and the business community, particularly in Ludhiana—Punjab’s industrial heartland.
Focus on Industry Revival and Diaspora Engagement
The Industry Department, previously held by Tarunpreet Singh Sond, has now been assigned to Arora. Sond will continue to manage Rural Development, Labour, and Tourism. Arora will also handle the NRI Affairs portfolio, succeeding senior minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, who resigned from the role earlier this week.
The reallocation suggests a renewed focus on expanding industrial growth and engaging with the global Punjabi diaspora. Arora’s business background is likely to play a significant role in attracting investments, improving the ease of doing business, and positioning Punjab as a more vibrant hub for manufacturing and services.
Cabinet Strength Remains at 16, Two Vacant Berths
With Dhaliwal’s resignation and Arora’s induction, the Cabinet strength remains at 16, though two ministerial berths still lie vacant. Political observers view the reshuffle as an attempt to inject fresh energy into the government’s economic agenda ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
Just 6 Minutes Oath Ceremony at Raj Bhawan
Arora was administered the oath of office and secrecy by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria in a brief but dignified ceremony held at the Punjab Raj Bhawan. The event, conducted by Chief Secretary K.A.P. Sinha, lasted just six minutes, beginning and ending with the National Anthem.
The ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, his wife Dr. Gurpreet Kaur Mann, several Cabinet ministers, senior bureaucrats, and political dignitaries.
