Chandigarh: Haryana governor Kaptan Singh Solanki on Thursday took over the additional charge of Governor of Punjab.
Solanki was administered the oath of office by Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Court Shiavax Jal Vazifdar at Punjab Raj Bhavan here, a official spokesman said.
He took the oath in Hindi.
Later, Solanki signed separate charge reports, both as Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Union Territory of Chandigarh.
Earlier, the Governor designate arrived at the special pandal of Punjab Raj Bhavan in a ceremonial procession.
He was accompanied by the Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
Solanki was given the additional charge after the tenure of Shivraj V Patil as Punjab governor come to an end on Wednesday.
The outgoing Governor Patil said he would ever remain in-debt to Punjab and its people for the support, cooperation, love and affection showered upon him during his stint as the constitutional head of the state.
In his farewell address while demitting the gubernatorial office after the completion of his term, Patil recalled the cooperation extended to him by the people, officers, Ministers and leaders of the various political parties and above all Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal.
In an emotionally surcharged speech, Patil said he was overwhelmed by the several pleasant memories while discharging his duties as the Governor of Punjab and administrator of the Union territory of Chandigarh, which would ever remain his treasure.
Patil said his formidable strength was the smooth cooperation and support given by the people while rendering services to this coveted office efficaciously to the satisfaction of general public.
The former Governor said this approach also helped him to take decisions absolutely in a free, impartial and unbiased manner probably, which was the hallmark of the administration of any constitutional office.
Striking a nostalgic note the outgoing Governor said, “My mind is filled with countless memories which I am unable to express in words but these will ever remain afresh on my mind and act as a source of inspiration for me”.
Earlier, Badal felicitated Patil on the occasion and wished him a pleasant, prosperous and healthy life ahead.