Deputy Prime Ministers of India
India has had several prominent leaders serve as Deputy Prime Minister, a role created to support the Prime Minister in governance and national administration. While not a constitutional post, the position has been held by influential political figures across different parties and coalitions.
Here is a list of all the Deputy Prime Ministers of India of India and their time in office:
Name | Duration (Start – End) | Political Party | Prime Minister |
L. K. Advani | 5 February 2002 – 22 May 2004 | Bharatiya Janata Party (NDA) | Atal Bihari Vajpayee |
Devi Lal | 2 December 1989 – 21 June 1991 | Janata Dal (National Front) | V. P. Singh / Chandra Shekhar |
Jagjivan Ram | 24 March 1977 – 28 July 1979 | Janata Party / Congress for Democracy | Morarji Desai / (as Deputy PM under Morarji Desai) |
Yashwantrao Chavan | 28 July 1979 – 14 January 1980 | Indian National Congress (Socialist) | Charan Singh |
Charan Singh | 24 January 1979 – 28 July 1979 | Janata Party | Morarji Desai |
Morarji Desai | 21 March 1967 – 6 December 1969 | Indian National Congress | Indira Gandhi |
Vallabhbhai Patel | 15 August 1947 – 15 December 1950 | Indian National Congress | Jawaharlal Nehru |
FAQs on Deputy Prime Minister of India
- Who was the first Deputy Prime Minister of India?
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was the first Deputy Prime Minister of India. He served from 15 August 1947 to 15 December 1950 under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
- Is the Deputy Prime Minister a constitutional post in India?
No, the Deputy Prime Minister is not a constitutional position. The role is created at the discretion of the Prime Minister and the government, depending on political and administrative needs.
- How many Deputy Prime Ministers has India had?
India has had a limited number of leaders serve as Deputy Prime Minister. The position has been held by senior political figures during coalition governments or periods requiring strong central leadership.
- Who served as Deputy Prime Minister for the longest period?
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had one of the longest tenures as Deputy Prime Minister, serving for over three years from 1947 to 1950.
- Can a Deputy Prime Minister also hold another ministry?
Yes, a Deputy Prime Minister usually holds an additional cabinet portfolio. For example, L. K. Advani served as Deputy Prime Minister while also handling the Ministry of Home Affairs.
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