Selja, who had handled education and culture as a junior minister, was given the portfolio of Culture yesterday in the reshuffle of the council of ministers apart from Housing and Poverty Alleviation.

"I will try to address the long pending problems plaguing organisations like ASI. They have done a wonderful job despite the shortage of manpower, legal help and funds. Increasing manpower is certainly on the agenda," Selja told reporters after taking over charge of the ministry.

The 48-year-old minister said she would also focus on showcasing performance and classical arts besides encouraging various academies under the ministry. "The portfolio has been under the Prime Minister (Manmohan Singh). I will carry forward the initiatives taken by him," she said.

"I look forward...it is an exciting ministry," Selja said.