Pralhad Joshi is a distinguished Indian politician currently serving as the Union Cabinet Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Minister of New and Renewable Energy. A senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), he represents the Dharwad constituency in Karnataka and is regarded as one of the country’s most experienced and respected parliamentarians.
With over two decades of parliamentary experience and multiple key cabinet responsibilities, Shri Joshi has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s governance, legislative functioning, energy security and public welfare policies. His leadership reflects a strong commitment towards nation-building, sustainable development and citizen-centric governance.
Previously, Shri Joshi served as the Union Cabinet Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Coal and Mines from May 2019 to June 2024, where he led several transformative reforms in the coal and mining sectors while ensuring the smooth functioning of Parliament during critical legislative sessions.
Under his leadership in the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, India has accelerated its clean energy transition through flagship initiatives such as the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, aimed at promoting rooftop solar adoption and providing affordable renewable energy solutions to households across the country.
As Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Joshi played a crucial role in ensuring the effective functioning of both Houses of Parliament. He was instrumental in the passage of several landmark legislations of national importance, including the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Women’s Reservation Bill, 2023), the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation measures related to the abrogation of Article 370 and The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019, commonly known as the Triple Talaq legislation.
A statesman par excellence, Shri Joshi has consistently worked towards instilling pride in India’s constitutional values and enhancing public awareness about democratic institutions and governance.
Shri Joshi has also contributed significantly towards strengthening major Public Sector Undertakings under his ministries, including Coal India Limited and its subsidiaries, NALCO, Geological Survey of India and Hindustan Copper Limited.
For Shri Joshi, “India First” and Aatmanirbharta remain at the core of every policy intervention. He firmly believes that a self-reliant Bharat can propel and fast-track India’s rise as a leading global power.
Known for his administrative efficiency, grassroots connect and organizational leadership, Shri Pralhad Joshi continues to contribute significantly towards India’s vision of sustainable growth, energy self-reliance and inclusive development.