Mumbai, August 14: As India celebrates its 79th Independence Day, it is worth remembering the monumental journey that led to freedom in 1947. Decades of relentless struggle, from the early calls for self-rule to the Quit India Movement, saw revolutionary leaders and citizens unite against British colonial rule. The sacrifices of countless freedom fighters finally paid off as India got its independence on August 15, 1947, marking the end of nearly 200 years of British dominance.

The transfer of power was both a moment of triumph and a time of immense challenge, as the country faced the partition’s tragedy alongside the task of nation-building. As Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru took oath as the first Prime Minister, the newly independent nation looked for stability, vision, and unity. Today, as the tricolour flies high, many wonder, who were the members of that historic first Union Cabinet of India? 79th Independence Day 2025: Evolution of the Indian National Flag, Know History, Changes in Design and Significance Tiranga Over the Years.

On the eve of the 79th Independence Day, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh shared a historic photo of Pandit Nehru’s handwritten list of the independent India’s first Cabinet, dated August 14, 1947.

Members of 1st Nehru Ministry

The Members of 1st Union Cabinet of Independent India

  • Jawaharlal Nehru: Prime Minister, External Affairs and Commonwealth Relations, Scientific Research.

  • Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: Home, Information and Broadcasting, States.

  • Dr Rajendra Prasad: Food and agriculture.

  • Maulana Abul Kalam Azad: Education.

  • Dr John Matthai: Railways and Transport.

  • Sardar Baldev Singh: Defence.

  • Jagjivan Ram: Labour.

  • CH Bhabha: Commerce.

  • Rafi Ahmad Kidwai: Communications.

  • Rajkumari Amrit Kaur: Health.

  • Dr BR Ambedkar: Law.

  • RK Shanmukham Chetty: Finance.

  • Dr Syama Prasad Mookerji: Industries and Supplies.

  • NV Gadgit: Works, Mines and Power.

How India’s First Government Took Shape

It must be noted that the transition to Indian independence was set in motion even before 1947. Following negotiations with the 1946 Cabinet Mission from the United Kingdom, the Constituent Assembly was formed. The Interim Government of India was formed on September 2, 1946, with the Indian National Congress dominating with 69% of the seats. The Muslim League, representing most Muslim constituencies, withdrew its members eventually from the government after the June 1947 Partition agreement. Delegates from provinces like Sindh, East Bengal, and West Punjab left to form Pakistan’s Constituent Assembly. 79th Indian Independence Day 2025 Date: Know History and Significance of the Day That Marks India’s Freedom From British Rule in 1947.

On 15 August 1947, the remaining members became the legislative body of the Dominion of India. Later, 93 members from princely states were added, giving the Congress an overwhelming 82% majority.

Jawaharlal Nehru took office as the first Prime Minister of independent India on August 15, 1947, and selected 15 others to form the first Union Cabinet. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel served as the first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister until his death in 1950. Lord Mountbatten was the last British Governor-General of India, succeeded by C Rajagopalachari, who held the post until India became a republic on January 26, 1950. Dr Rajendra Prasad was then elected as the first President of India.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 14, 2025 08:18 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).