Video: Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya while playing cricket

Minister Mansukh Mandaviya plays cricket

Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya was seen taking time out from his busy poll schedule to play cricket with locals at a multi-purpose ground in Porbandar, Gujarat.

Mr. Mandaviya, 51, will contest his first Lok Sabha election from Porbandar.

The black T-shirt-wearing minister, known as the “Green MP” for cycling to Parliament, was seen bowling, batting and fielding in the outfield.

At one point, the video shows the ball flying over the minister’s head as he jumped to catch his own bowling. Dozens of cows rest around the fence.

#watch | Union Health Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party leader Mansukh Mandaviya plays cricket with locals in Porbandar, Gujarat.

(Source: Manshukh Mandaviya Office) pic.twitter.com/gdfTorBABr

— ANI (@ANI) March 29, 2024

The minister, a left-arm bowler and batsman who also looks after the chemicals and fertilizers department, walked up to each player and shook hands with them after the match.

Mansukh Mandaviya created history in 2002 when he became the youngest MP from Gujarat. In 2012, he became a member of the Gujarat Lok Sabha. In 2016, he served as Minister of State for Road Transport, Highways, Shipping, Chemicals and Fertilizers. In 2018, he was re-elected as a member of the Federal Council.

Mr Mandaviya, who is also a veterinarian, was appointed health department chief in mid-2021 as the country battled the coronavirus crisis.