Mangalore : K Abhayachandra Jain, MLA from Mulki Moodbidri constituency, who has been elevated as State Minister,  has thanked the party leadership and chief minister for inducting him as a minister and giving him an opportunity to serve the people.

He was speaking to reporters at Mangalore airport after swearing in as the new minister at Bangalore.

He said  the ministership has brought him joy and that it was unexpected. He also said he never lobbied for ministership.

He said he would strive for a taluk status for Mulki. Hundreds had arrived to welcomed the new minister.

A number of jubilant party leaders and activists were present at the airport to receive the newly appointed minister. Celebration broke out as they showered garlands on him and hailed him with slogans.It is after a gap of 14 years that Moodbidri is getting a minister.