Anoop Jacob Returns To Kerala Cabinet After 10 Years With Historic Piravom Win

Anoop Jacob took oath as a minister in the new Kerala cabinet after registering a record fourth consecutive victory from Piravom in the 2026 Assembly elections. The win marks a major political comeback for the Kerala Congress leader, who has now returned to the state cabinet after a gap of ten years.

Anoop Jacob secured the Piravom seat once again with his highest-ever winning margin, strengthening his position within Kerala politics and the UDF government led by V. D. Satheesan. The 2026 mandate marks Anoop Jacob's fourth straight term from the constituency after earlier victories in 2012, 2016 and 2021.

Anoop Jacob's Return To Kerala Cabinet

With the latest oath-taking ceremony, Anoop Jacob officially returned to a ministerial role for the first time since serving in the Oommen Chandy government. His comeback is being viewed as politically significant within the Kerala Congress camp, especially after consistently retaining Piravom over the last decade.

Anoop Jacob first entered the Kerala Assembly through the 2012 Piravom by-election held after the death of his father T. M. Jacob, who served as Food and Civil Supplies Minister in the Oommen Chandy cabinet.

Following the bypoll victory, Anoop Jacob was inducted into the cabinet and handled the same Food and Civil Supplies portfolio earlier managed by T.M. Jacob.

Political Journey And Family Background

Born to T.M. Jacob and Daisy (Annie), Anoop Jacob comes from the Thirumarady Valiyappadath Thanikunnel family. He completed his graduation from Mar Ivanios College before pursuing a law degree from Kerala Law Academy.

His political journey within Kerala Congress began at the organisational level. In 2001, Anoop Jacob became the state president of the Kerala Congress student wing and Youth Front, roles that helped establish his presence within the party structure at a young age.

Personal Life

Anoop Jacob's wife Anila previously worked in the English department at B.P.C. College. The couple has two children - T.M. Jacob and Lira Anoop.

Political observers say Anoop Jacob's repeated victories in Piravom reflect sustained voter support and the continuing influence of the late T.M. Jacob's legacy in the region. His return to the cabinet after a decade is also being seen as a major milestone in his political career.