B L Joshi takes oath as new Meghalaya Governor

Shillong, Apr 12: Former Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Banwari Lal Joshi, was today sworn in as Governor of Meghalaya.

He was administered the oath of office and secrecy by the acting Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court Dinendra Biswas at a simple function in Raj Bhawan.

The swearing-in-ceremony was attended by Meghalaya Chief Minister D D Lapang and his Council of Ministers, GOC of 101 Area Vinod Nayanar, Officer Commanding-in-Chief Air Marshal P K Barbora and other senior government officials.

Mr Joshi succeeds Mundakkal Mathew Jacob, who held the post for a record 12 years. Mr Jacob was first appointed the Governor of Meghalaya on June 12, 1995. He was appointed for another term in 2000 till April 12 .

The 73-year-old Mr Joshi was appointed as Governor of Meghalaya by President A P J Abdul Kalam on April 5. Coming from Rajasthan, he has held various positions in the State Government, Centre and various Indian missions abroad.

Soon after assuming charge, he said he had come with a ''dream and commitment'' to make the capital town a ''beautiful city''. I am ready to meet all challenges and my role would be that of a problem solver,'' he added.

UNI