DK Shivakumar Retains Finance, Priyank Kharge Gets Home Portfolio in New Karnataka Cabinet

A day after taking oath as Chief Minister of Karnataka, DK Shivakumar announced the allocation of portfolios in his new Cabinet, retaining several key departments under his direct control while assigning important responsibilities to senior ministers.

Shivakumar will continue to oversee the crucial Finance, Cabinet Affairs, Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR), Intelligence, and all unallocated portfolios. By retaining these departments, the Chief Minister will have a significant role in shaping the state's fiscal policies, administrative decisions, and governance priorities.

One of the most notable appointments is that of Priyank Kharge, who has been entrusted with the Home Department (excluding Intelligence), along with Information Technology & Biotechnology (IT & BT) and E-Governance. The Home portfolio is considered one of the most influential ministries in the state government, responsible for maintaining law and order and overseeing police administration.

Deputy Chief Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara has been assigned the Revenue and Sports departments, while senior leader KH Muniyappa will head Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs. KJ George has been given charge of the Energy and Tourism portfolios.

Veteran minister MB Patil will oversee Large and Medium Industries and Infrastructure Development, sectors crucial for attracting investment and boosting economic growth. Ramalinga Reddy has been assigned Major and Medium Irrigation, while Sathish Jarakiholi will handle the Public Works Department.

A major responsibility has been given to Krishna Byregowda, who will oversee Greater Bengaluru Development, including the newly constituted Greater Bengaluru Authority, city corporations, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), and the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL).

Other key allocations include UT Khader as Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Eshwar Khandre for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, and Dr. Yathindra Siddaramaiah for Urban Development. Byrathi Suresh has been entrusted with Transport, while Sharan Prakash Patil will oversee Medical Education and Skill Development.

The Cabinet distribution reflects a balance of experience and administrative responsibility as the new government begins its term