First-Time MP Harsh Malhotra Joins Modi Govt as Union Minister of State

In a significant political development, Harsh Malhotra, a first-time Member of Parliament (MP), was sworn in as a Union Minister of State in the Narendra Modi government on Sunday. Malhotra, known for his organizational skills and grassroots work, has been a key figure in strengthening the party's foundation in Delhi. His appointment over seasoned politicians like three-time MP Manoj Tiwari and Bansuri Swaraj, the daughter of former Union Minister Sushma Swaraj, marks him as an unexpected choice for the ministerial role.

Malhotra's political journey took a notable turn when he was chosen to contest from the East Delhi Lok Sabha constituency for the 2024 general elections, replacing Gautam Gambhir. Demonstrating his electoral appeal, Malhotra secured a victory over INDIA bloc's Kuldeep Kumar by a margin of 93,663 votes. His current role as the General Secretary of the BJP Delhi unit underscores his pivotal position within the party.

His academic credentials include a graduation from the University of Delhi's Hansraj College followed by an LLB from the same institution in 1987. Malhotra's initial foray into public service began when he was elected as a councillor for the erstwhile East Delhi Municipal Corporation in 2012. His leadership qualities were further recognized when he served as the Chairman of the civic body's Education Committee and later as Mayor in 2015-16.

During his tenure as Chairman of the Education Committee, EDMC, Malhotra launched the Suposhan programme aimed at combating malnutrition among approximately 60,000 primary students across 398 municipal schools. His commitment to social causes is also evident from his role as a founder member of Dadhichi Deh Daan Samiti, where he has been active for 24 years promoting organ donation.

Malhotra's involvement with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) dates back to 1984 when he joined its youth wing. He has held various positions within the party, including Yuva Morcha Mandal President and Secretary-District Yuva Morcha, before ascending to District General Secretary Organization in 2005 and District President in 2007.

As Mayor of East Delhi Municipal Corporation in 2015, Malhotra initiated projects focusing on converting waste to wealth and generating electricity from municipal garbage. His entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in his venture into the printing business in 1986 and his advocacy for the printing community as President of the Delhi Printers Association and Joint Secretary of the All India Federation of Master Printers (AIFMP).

Born on April 24, 1964, in Delhi to educators Raj and Vijay Kishan Malhotra, Harsh Malhotra has been instrumental in addressing industry challenges too. His efforts were crucial during the relocation of industries in Delhi in 1996, ensuring a smooth transition for printers to the Bawana Industrial area.

Harsh Malhotra's diverse contributions to public service, party organization, social causes, and industry advocacy mark him as a multifaceted leader. His recent elevation to Union Minister of State reflects not only his dedication but also signals his rising prominence within national politics.