After taking the charge of Earth Sciences Ministry, Harsh Vardhan on Tuesday said that the government was in the process of formulating the "deep ocean mission" programme, encompassing various aspects of oceans in an integrated framework.

Harsh Vardhan also praised the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) for accurate prediction of cyclone Fani.

After taking the charge, Vardhan expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving him the portfolio for a second time.

It may be mentioned here that Vardhan on Monday had taken charge of the Health Ministry.

He held Environment and Earth Sciences portfolio in the previous government.