As the Congress party in Karnataka gears up for the formation of a new Cabinet, intense lobbying is underway for the crucial education portfolios. MLCs Manjunath Bhandary, Puttanna, and M R Seetharam are leading the charge, each highlighting their educational backgrounds to bolster their bids for the School Education and Higher Education positions. Bhandary, who has strong connections with the Congress high command and runs the Sahyadri Group of Institutions, is seen as a frontrunner for a Cabinet berth. In contrast, Seetharam, a former minister associated with the Ramaiah Group of Institutions, faces challenges due to caste dynamics. Puttanna, who leads the Sadhana Group of Institutions, is also in the race but may be hindered by competition from other aspirants within the Vokkaliga community. Meanwhile, current School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa is expected to retain his role, despite some pressure for his removal, owing to his family's political legacy. The final decisions will depend on the Congress high command and the caste considerations at play.