The Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, expanded its cabinet on Sunday, inducting eight new ministers and reaching its full strength of 60 ministers. This reshuffle is strategically designed to consolidate support among key social groups, including non-Yadav Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Dalits, and upper castes, ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. Notably, the new cabinet includes one Brahmin, three OBC representatives, and two from Dalit communities, highlighting the BJP's focus on maintaining a broad social coalition in the state. Political observers suggest that the inclusion of figures like Bhupendra Chaudhary, a prominent Jat leader, and Manoj Kumar Pandey, a Brahmin from Rae Bareli, is aimed at strengthening outreach to these communities, especially after challenges faced in the recent Lok Sabha elections. Experts believe the cabinet expansion reflects the BJP's ongoing strategy of social engineering, addressing caste dynamics to counter the opposition's traditional support bases. The reshuffle has also drawn criticism from opposition leaders, including Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, who questioned the rationale behind appointing leaders who switched from other parties. Overall, this cabinet expansion marks a significant recalibration of caste representation as the BJP prepares for the upcoming electoral battle.