Dhumal expands cabinet, inducts nine ministers

Shimla, Jan 9: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal on Wednesday expanded his cabinet with the induction of nine ministers. The ministers were administered the oath of office and secrecy by Governor V. S. Kokje at a swearing-in ceremony at the Raj Bhawan here. The nine ministers are Krishan Kapoor, Ramesh Thamala, Ravinder Singh Ravi, Shraveen Chaudhary, Rajiv Bindal, Narinder Bragta, I D Dhiman and Gulab Singh.

According to the constitutional limits, the size of the Himachal Pradesh cabinet could not exceed 12 ministers including the Chief Minister. As the cabinet expansion will take in two phases, the second expansion will be held later for rest of the berths. The first session of new Assembly will start on January 11. On the opening day, the Pro tem speaker will administer oath of office to the newly elected members.

ANI