NEW DELHI: It was the first day at the office for new information and broadcasting minister Priyaranjan Dasmunshi today.

Talking to reporters soon after taking charge, Dasmunshi, who is also parliamentary affairs minister, said that transparency is the watchword of the UPA Government, which is committed to protecting the freedom of the press, news agency PTI has reported.

Noting that his new job was a "very challenging" one, he said the government favours that media should get the maximum information so that it helps create an informed public opinion.

Before taking charge, Dasmunshi met his predecessor S Jaipal Reddy, who has now been shifted to the urban development ministry while retaining the portfolio of culture minister.

Dasmunshi, a career politician, also heads Indian football's official body All India Football Federation (AIFF), which recently signed a telecast deal for domestic football with Zee Sports for an undisclosed amount.