The Minister also holds charge of the Union Ministries of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy.

Joshi chaired a review meeting of the Ministry in which he reviewed the implementation of various Schemes and other initiatives.

Union Minister of State of Education Jayant Chaudhary also attended the review meeting.

After taking charge, Pralhad Joshi wrote on X: "Today, I assumed charge as the Union Minister for Education."

Thanking PM Narendra Modi for the additional charge, he said: "I am grateful to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodiji for placing his faith in me and entrusting me with this responsibility. I accept it with humility and a deep sense of duty."

The resignation of Pradhan came after sustained protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which had made his removal one of its key demands.

Centre announces measures to tackle paper leaks

Amid the growing protests, the Centre has announced a series of measures aimed at tackling paper leaks.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the setting up of fast-track courts to hear paper leak cases.

Dharmendra Pradhan quit as Education Minister amid severe NEET paper leak protests. Photo: IBNS File

The government is also planning amendments to the law dealing with paper leaks, including stricter punishments and higher fines.

The Centre has replaced the education secretary and removed 47 officials from the National Testing Agency (NTA), while promising a broader overhaul of the examination system.