Gen Next, is CPM’s strategy to stay alive. At least in God’s own country, Kerala. The Pinarayi Vijayan-led LDF government’s decision, to have new faces in its 20-member Cabinet and not give a 2^nd consecutive term to sitting ministers, barring Chief Minister, has raised many an eyebrow.

Particularly, when Health Minister Shailaja’s exclusion was least expected. Undeniably, she played a leading role in the battle against Covid-19 in the first wave and earned both national and global recognition. Vijayan has sought to justify it saying it’s central leadership’s decision to give the younger generation a chance and that’s why 26 MLAs, including senior Ministers, weren’t given tickets for these elections.

Shailaja supporters may be unwilling to buy as there seemed to be a popularity race between the two. But the deed has been done. On Thursday last, Vijayan took oath along with his new team at a grand celebration as it was a historic moment for the party — the return of an incumbent government after a span of four decades.

The new Cabinet has 12 ministers from CPM, four CPI, and one each from Kerala Congress (M), INL, DKC, NCP, JD(S). And 17 of the 20 ministers are first timers—a blend of youth and veterans.

However, inclusion of Vijayan’s son-in-law hasn’t gone down too well. Be that as it may, the bigger concern will be whether the two-term CM’s gamble of fresh blood will yield dividends, for him, his party, and government.