First Dhumal ministry


The First Prem Kumar Dhumal ministry is the Council of Ministers in Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly headed by Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal of Bharatiya Janta Party.
It governed the state from 24 March 1998 to 5 March 2003, completing a full statutory term.

Background and formation

The cabinet was formed after the 1998 Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly elections, in which the BJP emerged as the leading party and Prem Kumar Dhumal was elected leader of the legislative party. Dhumal won the Bamsan constituency and was sworn in as Chief Minister.
Himachal Vikas Congress supported the government as a coalition to get majority in the assembly.

Tenure and governance

During his tenure, the Dhumal ministry focused on improving infrastructure and the connectivity of the state's road network to rural areas. This emphasis earned Dhumal the reputation of being a Chief Minister focused on roads and infrastructure.
The ministry completed its full five-year term. This was a noteworthy achievement  as many governments in the state had shorter tenures.

Chief Minister and Ministers