In a brief expansion, three more members have been inducted into Andhra Pradesh Cabinet this evening. Governor E S L Narasimhan administered the oath of office and secrecy to the new Ministers at a ceremony held on the lawns of the Raj Bhavan in Hyderabad.

Two of the new Ministers – Huzurnagar MLA, Uttam Kumar Reddy and Vikarabad MLA, Prasad Kumar, represent the Telangana region. Rajam legislator, Kondru Murali Mohan is the third Minister. Our Correspondent reports that, Andhra Pradesh cabinet has been expanded for the second time in a period of about a fortnight.

Two members from the erstwhile Praja Rajyam Party have been inducted during the previous expansion that took place on 19th of last month while three members including two from the Telangana region have found place in the cabinet this time.

Today’s expansion has gained significance politically and administratively as it has filled up two vacancies in the cabinet created due to resignation by two ministers over statehood for Telangana.

It is also seemingly intended to balance the representation of the three regions of the state and various social groups in the cabinet. With induction of more members the responsibilities of key ministries like Agriculture that are under additional charge since long time will be taken care off to address the urgent issues especially in the wake of two thirds of the state is reeling under drought conditions.

However, the portfolios are yet to be announced while the total strength of the cabinet has gone up from 38 to 41 with this expansion.