Harsh Vardhan takes charge as Minister of Science and Technology

Taking charge of the Ministry of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Ministry, Dr. Harsh Vardhan on Monday said he would do his best to develop the country through his newly acquired responsibility.

"I have a science and medical background. I cannot be happier about the fact that the Prime Minister has given me such an important area. I assure you that I'll use this newly acquired responsibility for the development of the country and people," said Harsh Vardhan.

On Sunday, 21 new cabinet ministers were inducted in the first Cabinet expansion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government.

Former Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar was given the Defence Ministry and former NDA minister Suresh Prabhu was given the Railway Ministry. Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, who earlier held the Defence portfolio as an additional charge, was given the Information and Broadcasting Ministry's additional charge.