Maharashtra Cabinet Shuffle: New Roles for NCP Leaders

In a surprising move, Maharashtra's cabinet witnessed a shuffle with NCP MLA Manikrao Kokate transitioning from the agriculture ministry to the sports and youth welfare department. The decision, part of a late-night reshuffle, was confirmed by the General Administration Department (GAD) on Thursday night.

Dattatrey Bharne, the former sports minister, has been appointed as the new agriculture minister. Both Kokate and Bharne are key figures in the Ajit Pawar-led NCP, representing Sinnar in Nashik and Indapur in Pune, respectively.

Kokate, who gained notoriety after a video circulated showing him engaged in an online game during legislative sessions and for his remarks equating farmers to beggars, now also oversees minority development and Auqaf departments.

(With inputs from agencies.)