V.D. Satheesan Sworn In as Kerala’s 13th Chief Minister Following UDF Landslide Victory
V.D. Satheesan assumes office as Kerala’s 13th Chief Minister after the Congress-led UDF wins 102 seats in the April 2026 elections, ending a decade of LDF rule. The 21-member Cabinet includes coalition allies, 14 new members, and swift welfare measures for workers, women, and elderly citizens, signaling a major political shift.
Satheesan, a six-time Member of the Legislative Assembly, now heads a 21-member Cabinet carefully structured to balance coalition partners, including the Indian Union Muslim League and the Kerala Congress. The ministry features 14 new entrants, among them two women, reflecting a significant generational and representational shift within the government formation.
Soon after assuming office, the new administration approved a series of welfare measures, including salary increases for ASHA workers and anganwadi workers, the introduction of free bus travel for women, and the creation of a dedicated portfolio for elderly welfare, signaling an immediate focus on social support policies.
Outgoing Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan extended support to the transition of power. However, public discourse online highlighted observations regarding minority representation within the Cabinet and noted a brief seating arrangement mishap during the national anthem at the ceremony.
The swearing-in marks a major political transition in Kerala, with the new government entering office on a strong electoral mandate and facing immediate expectations to implement its announced welfare-driven agenda.

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