'Selfless service': BJP leaders hail Dharmendra Pradhan's tenure as education minister

New Delhi – Following weeks of student protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG exam, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned, drawing praise from senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders.

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His unwavering commitment to implementing the National Education Policy, despite the political challenges it entailed, will be remembered as one of his finest contributions to nation-building.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed gratitude for Pradhan's efforts in strengthening India's education system and promoting its cultural identity. Sarma noted Pradhan's focus on "restoring the civilisational spirit of Bharat" and advancing the decolonization of education, particularly commending his commitment to implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 despite political challenges.

BJP leader Nitin Nabin described Pradhan's resignation as a reflection of integrity and accountability in public life. He credited Pradhan with reshaping India's education landscape through NEP 2020 and other initiatives, stating the decision to step down prioritized larger interests.

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Prioritising larger interests, his decision to step down reflects the highest standards of integrity and selfless service in public life.

Amit Malviya, another BJP leader, characterized Pradhan's tenure as transformative for India's education sector. Malviya highlighted Pradhan's focus on expanding institutions, improving inclusivity, embracing technology, and strengthening India's cultural roots within education. He added that Pradhan aimed to create an education ecosystem for the 21st century while staying connected to India's heritage.

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His stewardship was marked by structural reforms, institutional expansion, greater inclusivity, technological modernisation and a renewed emphasis on India’s civilisational ethos.