Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns as Union Education Minister, Cites Need to Shield Students From Political Controversy

New Delhi, Jul 25: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday stepped down from the Union Cabinet, saying his decision was guided by the larger interests of students and the need to prevent political developments from disrupting their academic future.

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— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) July 25, 2026

In a letter addressed to the country's youth, Pradhan said he had devoted more than four decades to students, teaching and educational reforms, and reiterated his belief that a strong, inclusive and transparent education system forms the foundation of a strong nation.

"I have always respected the aspirations, emotions and legitimate expectations of India's youth. Helping them realise their dreams has remained a moral commitment throughout my public life," he wrote, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving him the opportunity to serve the nation.

Refers to NEET-UG controversy

Pradhan recalled that irregularities surfaced during the NEET-UG examination held on May 3, 2026. He said the Centre responded immediately by ordering a CBI investigation, cancelling the examination and announcing a fresh schedule. The government also decided that, from next year, NEET will be conducted in the computer-based test (CBT) mode.

According to Pradhan, ensuring the smooth conduct of the examination for more than 20 lakh candidates became the government's foremost priority.

He said the Centre adopted a "whole-of-government approach", working in coordination with state governments, district administrations, students and parents. As a result, the re-examination was successfully conducted on June 21, 2026.

"I accepted responsibility"

Pradhan said he had accepted responsibility from the very beginning and had remained steadfast throughout the crisis.

"My resolve was that no deserving student should suffer because of examination mafias and no candidate should face injustice," he wrote.

He noted that the NEET-UG results declared on July 16 had been satisfactory and that many meritorious students from economically weaker backgrounds had secured success.

"Attempts were made to mislead students"

Pradhan, however, said he was deeply distressed by what he described as attempts by people occupying responsible positions to mislead students during the controversy.

He reiterated his faith in India's democratic institutions and described the country's youth as the architects of a developed India.

"The events of the past ten days have saddened me. This is not a question of my personal reputation. India's youth are the nation's greatest strength. They must not be trapped in a web of confusion and misinformation," he said.

Resignation to avoid disruption

Pradhan said he had decided to resign to ensure that anti-national forces did not exploit the prevailing situation and that students remained focused on their education rather than legal and political disputes.

He said he had submitted his resignation to the Prime Minister after careful consideration.

Thanks Prime Minister and colleagues

Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for his guidance, trust and continued support, Pradhan also thanked his Cabinet colleagues, ministry officials and everyone with whom he had worked during his tenure.

He reaffirmed that service to the nation would remain his highest priority.

Seeking the blessings of Lord Jagannath, Pradhan concluded by saying that he would continue dedicating himself to serving Bharat Mata (Mother India), the people of Odisha and the aspirations of India's youth in every possible way.

"Service to the nation has always been, and will remain, the highest mission of my life," he wrote.