Hyderabad, Dec 1 (IANS) A week after taking oath, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nallari Kiran Kumar Reddy assumed office Wednesday and the first file he signed was related to a welfare scheme.

At 9.52 a.m., the time fixed by his astrologers, he entered his chief ministerial chamber at the state secretariat.

In an indication that he was committed to the welfare schemes launched by late chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, the first file he signed was related to the release of funds for Arogyasri, a scheme under which the poor are provided free medical treatment in corporate hospitals.

After being sworn-in Nov 25, Kiran Kumar visited a hospital in the city to meet patients undergoing treatment under the scheme.

The 50-year-old leader was accorded a warm welcome by officials of the chief minister’s office and other staff of the state secretariat. Hindu priests conducted special rituals on the occasion, praying for the good health of the chief minister.

Kiran Kumar took charge a few minutes before 39 cabinet ministers took oath at Raj Bhavan.