Mamata Banerjee Swears In 35‑Member Cabinet, Suvendu Adhikari Among New Ministers

In a ceremony that felt part politics, part pageantry, West Bengal’s chief minister Mamata Banerjee officially expanded her cabinet on Tuesday, ushering in 35 new ministers. The swearing‑in took place at the secretariat, with a modest crowd of senior party leaders, journalists, and a handful of curious onlookers.

Among the fresh faces, the name that grabbed headlines was Suvendu Adhikari. Once a firebrand opponent of the TMC, Adhikari’s recent alignment with the party saw him handed the agriculture portfolio—a move analysts say signals Banerjee’s intent to balance experience with a touch of reconciliation.

Other notable appointments included the veteran Trinamool stalwart Partha Chatterjee, who will now oversee the law department, and the relatively new face, Shri Rupa Mandal, assigned to the women and child development ministry. The list also features several younger leaders, such as 34‑year‑old Amitava Sinha, who will handle sports and youth affairs, reflecting the chief minister’s desire to inject fresh energy into the government.

What makes this reshuffle interesting isn’t just the names; it’s the distribution of portfolios. Finance now rests with the seasoned economist Subrata Mukherjee, while the critical law‑and‑order belt goes to Trinamool’s trusted lawmaker, Somen Mitra. The health ministry, still grappling with post‑pandemic pressures, lands in the hands of Dr. Sampa Ghosh, a medical professional turned politician.

Banerjee, who has ruled the state for nearly a decade, emphasized continuity and stability during her brief address. “We are a team that works for the people of Bengal,” she said, adding that the new cabinet will focus on infrastructure, employment, and social welfare.

The ceremony concluded with the usual exchange of garlands and a modest photo‑op, after which the ministers dispersed to briefings in their respective departments. Observers will now watch how quickly these officials translate their promises into action, especially in a state where political stakes are always high.

For anyone curious about the complete roster, the government has published the full list on its official website, detailing each minister’s name, constituency, and assigned portfolio.