Ex-Karnataka CM H D Kumaraswamy likely in Modi Cabinet: Sources
New Delhi (PTI): Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D Kumaraswamy is likely to take oath Sunday evening as a minister in the Union Cabinet, party sources said.
While the portfolio allocation is yet to be confirmed, the JD(S), which has won two seats in the recent Lok Sabha elections, has expressed interest in the Agriculture Ministry, the sources added.
"Kumaraswamy has received the invitation for the swearing-in ceremony. He will be sworn-in as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's new Council of Ministers," a party source told PTI.
Preparations are underway at the residence of JD(S) supremo H D Deve Gowda at 5 Safdarjung Lane in New Delhi to celebrate the occasion.
Modi will be sworn-in for an record-equalling third consecutive term as prime minister this evening.
The inclusion of Kumaraswamy in the Union Cabinet is seen as a strategic move by the BJP to strengthen its foothold in the southern states, particularly in Karnataka, where the JD(S) enjoys significant support especially in the Vokkaliga community-dominated regions.
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Schools in Mizoram's nine districts closed due to rain
Aizawl (PTI): All schools in nine districts of Mizoram remained closed on Tuesday due to heavy rain that has been lashing the northeastern state since the day before, an official said.
School Education Director Angela Zothanpuii said administrations of nine districts, including Aizawl, Kolasib, Lunglei and Mamit, announced school closure on Tuesday as a precautionary measure for students' safety.
However, schools in the southern districts of Hnahthial and Lawngtlai remained open following a slight improvement in weather conditions there, she said.
According to the India Meteorological Department, Serchhip recorded the highest rainfall at 70.5 mm in a 24-hour period, followed by Hnahthial 55 mm, Siaha 37.5 mm, and Aizawl 36 mm.
Khawzawl district reported 30 mm of rainfall, Mamit 25.9 mm, Kolasib 25 mm, Lawngtlai 17.5 mm, and Lunglei 2.2 mm during the same period, it said.
The weather department has forecast light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorm and lightning in Mizoram on Tuesday.
