Shripad Naik: Goa's Unwavering Representative in Modi 3.0 Cabinet

Goa retains its sole representation in the Modi 3.0 Cabinet with the induction of Shripad Naik as Minister of State. Naik, a long-standing political figure, has served in various capacities since 1999, recently winning his sixth consecutive term in the 2024 general elections with a significant lead.

Goa has secured its sole representation in the Modi 3.0 Cabinet, with the induction of veteran MP Shripad Naik as a Minister of State. This political reality has remained consistent since 2017.

Naik, who has played significant roles during PM Narendra Modi's previous tenures, has represented Goa in various capacities. Between 2014 and 2017, Goa had more representation in the Central Cabinet with Manohar Parrikar serving as Defence Minister while Naik was Minister of State for AYUSH.

In the 2024 general elections, Naik achieved a milestone by winning his sixth consecutive term from the North Goa seat, defeating former union minister Ramakant Khalap by a margin of one lakh votes. As the longest-serving Member of Parliament from Goa, Naik's political journey began in 1999, and he has won every Lok Sabha election since then.

Until the recent election, Naik served as Minister of State for Tourism and Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. Throughout his career, he has held several important portfolios, including Minister of State (Independent Charge) AYUSH, Minister of State for Defence, and Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Culture and Tourism.