Priyank Kharge appointed minister in Karnataka's Shivakumar cabinet

Congress leader Priyank Kharge was sworn in as a minister in Karnataka chief minister D.K. Shivakumar's new cabinet. Kharge, the son of senior Congress figure Mallikarjun Kharge, has previously served in the IT and Biotechnology portfolio and later as Social Welfare minister. In the latest reshuffle he will handle Rural Development, Panchayat Raj, as well as Information Technology and Biotechnology departments. His political career began with the National Students' Union of India in 1998, followed by roles as state general secretary of the Youth Congress and multiple election victories from the Chittapur constituency. The appointment reflects Shivakumar's effort to give prominent Congress figures key responsibilities in the state government.

Kharge has been noted for his advocacy on constitutional rights, social justice and the upliftment of marginalized communities. His involvement in international tech summits and regional development projects has been highlighted as part of his portfolio responsibilities.