The replacement of Praful Patel as aviation minister with overseas affairs minister and 10 Janpath loyalist Vayalar Ravi is a clear indication that the government is not happy with the policy measures taken by the NCP leader.
In the last two years, Patel has been repeatedly criticised for the financial mess at national carrier Air India.
Criticism aside, Patel has been considered a dynamic leader and known for leading the reforms. During his tenure, several new carriers, including the pioneer of low-cost travel in India the erstwhile Air Deccan, were given the licence to start scheduled air transportation service.
Since Patel took charge of aviation ministry, the domestic air traffic has grown many fold to 520.21 lakh passengers in 2010 from 181.73 lakh in 2004. He is also credited with privatisation of Delhi and Mumbai airports to take the airport infrastructure in the country to world-class levels.
It needs to be seen whether Patel sticks to his reputation of a reformer as the minister for heavy industries and public enterprises following his promotion to the Cabinet rank. Patel held the high-profile aviation ministry as minister of state (independent charge).
Meanwhile, Vayalar Ravi is set to face challenges with the aviation industry still burdened with losses and debts in billions. The new minister will have to strike a balance between growth and financial health of the carriers. The poor financial health of state-owned Air India continues to be a matter of concern for the government and requires tough decisions including disinvestment.