Thiruvananthapuram: Keralite Priyanca Radhakrishnan on Monday became the first Indian to be sworn in as a Minister in New Zealand as Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern unveiled her new cabinet.
The 41-year-old has been sworn in as the Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector.
Radhakrishnan, born in Chennai and brought up in Singapore, has her roots in Paravur, Kochi, where her grandfather was a medical professional.
A two-time MP from Auckland, she reached New Zealand to pursue her higher studies. Since 2004 she has been in active politics with the Labour Party.
She shot into prominence and became a household name in Kerala during last Onam when she appeared live with Ardern to extend her greetings on the occasion.
Radhakrishnan continues her love with Malayalam songs and said her most admired singer is popular Keralite playback singer K.J. Yesudas.
