Pranab Mukherjee is no stranger to power. The veteran of many governments has promised to meet the media after 48 hours to "answer all your questions".
On his first day in office as India's new defence minister, the Congressman limited himself to a detailed statement, some very brief replies, and a mild dig at his predecessor, George Fernandes.
As he wound through his first day in South Block, he gave enough hints of what he planned to do.
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Mukherjee said as the defence minister he had a "tremendous responsibility". He never sounded bitter about the fact that it was a last minute shuffle that brought him to South Block. Originally he was to occupy the seat vacated by Lal Kishenchand Advani in the home ministry, across the road in North Block.
Till Saturday, even defence ministry officials were sure that it was Shivraj Patil, now the home minister, who they would have to report to.
It was not to be, but the defence ministry officials are sure he will do a good job.
With his seniority in the Cabinet and network among bureaucrats and politicians, Mukherjee will "push our needs better", an official remarked.
Mukhjeree said he would focus on clean and transparent procurement, speedier modernisation of the armed forces and better welfare of ex-servicemen. The Congress manifesto had promised the same.
Mukherjee, when pointed out that there were many projects incomplete and procurements pending, said it was due to "bad management".
"Wouldn't they rather go to the next election as the government that modernised the armed forces than being blamed for delaying our forward march by a few years?" asked another official.
Asked if he would go into the defence deals finalised during the National Democratic Alliance term, Mukherjee said that would be done only if "specific charges come up".
Under the NDA regime, India became one of the biggest buyers of defence wares in the world. The country signed several big deals, including the one for Advanced Jet Trainers.
Mukherjee said the Kashmir issue had to be dealt at various levels. While continuing dialogue with separatists and Pakistan, he said, steps would be taken to pressurise militants to give up their armed struggle.
During his first official meeting, Mukherjee showed why he is respected for his administrative skills. As officials briefed him on various aspects, he asked precise questions. He was quite conversant regarding the deals and projects underway, admit officials.
Later in the day, the chiefs of services called on him, giving him a hint of the grandeur that lie ahead.
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