From correspondents in Jammu and Kashmir, India, 07:02 PM IST

B.R. Kundal, a former Jammu and Kashmir chief secretary who joined the Congress party after voluntary retirement, was sworn in here Friday as a cabinet minister.

Kundal was administered the oath of office and secrecy by Governor S.K. Sinha on the lawns of the Raj Bhawan.

Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig and other senior ministers, judges of the high court as well as civil and police officers were present at the ceremony.

Although Kundal's portfolio was not immediately announced, it is reliably learnt that he would hold the prestigious power development portfolio.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)