N. Rangasamy, founder of the All India NR Congress (AINRC), was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Puducherry for a record fifth term on Wednesday. Lieutenant Governor K. Kailashnathan administered the oath of office after the AINRC-led NDA alliance secured a comfortable majority in the 2026 Assembly elections.

The NDA alliance won 18 seats in the 30-member Puducherry Assembly, paving the way for Rangasamy’s return to power. He took the oath alone during the ceremony, while the announcement regarding the full cabinet formation is expected in the coming days.

Rangasamy remains one of Puducherry’s most influential political leaders and continues to enjoy strong support across the Union Territory. His latest victory further strengthens the NDA’s presence in southern India.
Political observers are now closely watching the cabinet expansion and the new government’s policy priorities, especially in areas such as infrastructure, tourism, welfare, and economic development.


