The minor irrigation portfolio has come as a blessing to Eshwar Khandre, who represents one of the driest taluks in the state, without irrigation facilities. Mr. Khandre is the second leader from the Khandre clan to be a minister and fourth leader to be MLA. His elder brother Vijay Kumar and cousin Prakash Khandre have served as MLAs from Bhalki earlier. Mr. Khandre said he would focus on expanding irrigation facilities across the state. His father Bheemanna Khandre had served as a transport minister in the cabinet of Veerappa Moily.

Source: The Hindu June 19, 2016 15:33 UTC