Solanki plans to continue good work of his predecessor

After taking over from Ramesh, Solanki discussed with his predecessor the government's plan to make country open- defecation free in a planned manner.

Ramesh had held the portfolio of Rural Development and Water and Sanitation Ministries for 15 months.

Applauding Ramesh for bringing sanitation issues to the fore, Solanki said that he will try to carry forward the good work done by his predecessor.

"Jairam Ramesh has done a good job as Water and Sanitation Minister. He has brought in a sensitivity for sanitation related issues. I will try to continue the good work done by him," Solanki told reporters.

Though Ramesh refused to share his thoughts about leaving the Sanitation Ministry, sources in his office talked about the disappointment on their Minister being stripped-off the portfolio.

The Minister has been passionate about sanitation-related issues which he brought it in the limelight, they said, adding that Ramesh also managed to get additional funds to carry out the projects.

Ramesh was given the additional charge of Water and Sanitation Ministry after Mumbai Congress leader Gurudas Kamat refused to accept the low-profile portfolio immediately after the Cabinet reshuffle a year ago.

In a bid to gain public glare for sanitation issues, the Minister had roped-in Bollywood star Vidya Balan as the brand ambassador of the water and sanitation issues.

Balan has been actively participating in the on-going 'Nirmal Bharat Yatra' to create awareness on sanitation issues and stop the practice of open defecation in rural areas.