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Deputy Prime Minister of India is a senior government leader assisting the Prime Minister in administration, policy decisions, and governance. Covered here is the Deputy Prime Minister of India, including the first, last, and a complete list of officeholders.
The Deputy Prime Minister of India is an important leader in the government. Even though it is not a constitutional post, it is the second-highest position in the Union Government. The Deputy Prime Minister helps the Prime Minister with running the country, making important decisions, and managing the government. This role also helps keep balance in coalition governments and ensures smooth leadership when needed.
Since India became independent, the office has been used at different times and has played an important part in politics and administration. This article looks at the history, responsibilities, and a complete deputy prime ministers of India list.
The first deputy prime minister of India was Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He served from 15 August 1947 to 15 December 1950. Patel was also the Home Minister. He played a big role in bringing all the princely states together into one India. He helped set up a strong system to run the country smoothly after independence.
| First Deputy Prime Minister of India | |
| Attribute | Details |
| Tenure | 1947–1950 |
| Ministry | Home Affairs and States, Information and Broadcasting |
| Political Party | Indian National Congress |
| Contributions | Integration of princely states, administrative reforms, and national unity |
As of 2025, India does not have a current Deputy Prime Minister. The post has remained vacant since L. K. Advani, who served from 2002 to 2004. The position is not a constitutional requirement and is appointed at the discretion of the Prime Minister.
It is usually appointed for political or administrative reasons. While several senior leaders have held the office in the past, the current government has chosen to operate without a Deputy Prime Minister. Relying on the Cabinet and ministers to manage administration and coordination.
The Deputy Prime Minister of India acts as a senior government leader, assisting the Prime Minister in policy-making and administration. This position ensures that the government runs smoothly, coordinates between ministries, and supports the Prime Minister in national governance.
| Role and Responsibilities of the Deputy Prime Minister of India | |
| Role / Responsibility | Description |
| Assists the Prime Minister | Supports in policymaking and administrative decisions |
| Represents the Government | Acts as a representative in Parliament and at official events |
| Coordinates Ministries | Ensures smooth communication between ministries and political parties |
| Senior Advisor | Provides advice on national and political matters |
| Acting PM | Temporarily performs the Prime Minister’s duties when the PM is absent |
India has had seven Deputy Prime Ministers since independence. The deputy prime minister of India list includes:
| Deputy Prime Minister of India List | |||||
| No. | Name | Tenure | Political Party | Key Portfolio | Prime Minister |
| 1 | Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel | 1947–1950 | INC | Home Affairs & States, Information & Broadcasting | Jawaharlal Nehru |
| 2 | Morarji Desai | 1967–1969 | INC | Finance | Indira Gandhi |
| 3 | Charan Singh | 1979–1980 | JP | Agriculture, Home Affairs | Morarji Desai |
| 4 | Yashwantrao Chavan | 1979–1980 | INC | Defence | Charan Singh |
| 5 | Jagjivan Ram | 1979–1980 | INC | Defence, Food & Civil Supplies | Charan Singh |
| 6 | Devi Lal | 1989–1991 | JD | Agriculture, Rural Development | V. P. Singh |
| 7 | L. K. Advani | 2002–2004 | BJP | Home Affairs | Atal Bihari Vajpayee |
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The Deputy Prime Minister of India plays an important role in maintaining political stability and administrative continuity. The office enhances governance efficiency by providing senior leadership and supporting key national policies. Check the table below to understand the Significance of the Deputy Prime Minister of India.
| Significance of the Deputy Prime Minister of India | |
| Significance | Explanation |
| Parliamentary Support | Acts as a deputy to the Prime Minister in parliamentary affairs |
| Policy Formulation | Assists in developing and implementing national policies |
| Leadership in Coalitions | Provides guidance and leadership during coalition governments |
| Coordination | Supports coordination of major ministries and national portfolios |
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Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was the first Deputy Prime Minister of India. He served from 15 August 1947 to 15 December 1950.
As of 2025, India does not have a Deputy Prime Minister. The position is currently vacant.
India has had seven people serve as Deputy Prime Ministers. This count is since India’s independence.
The Deputy Prime Minister helps the Prime Minister run the country. They also assist in policy decisions and may act in the Prime Minister’s place when needed.
No, the Deputy Prime Minister is not a constitutional position. The Prime Minister decides if the post is needed.
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Prahaar (Mains Wallah)
Prahaar Summary
Mains Wallah (Q&A Bank)
Budget & Economic Survey
NCERT Wallah
Marks Booster
Udaan 500+
Udaan
Prelims Wallah (Q&A Bank)
Current Affairs
Monthly Current Wallah
Subject Wise Current Affairs
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Editorial PDFs
News of The Day
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