New Delhi, July 5 (IANS): From an oncologist-surgeon to a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's council of ministers, the journey has been a unique one for Subhash Bhamre, who was elected from Dhule parliamentary constituency in Maharashtra.

Born in Malpur in Dhule district of Maharashtra, Bhamre was a medical practitioner before he embarked upon a political career. He was elected to the 16th Lok Sabha on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket, and on Tuesday was sworn-in as Minister of State.

Bhamre, who did his medical studies in Mumbai at Grant Medical College, J.J. Hospital and Tata Cancer Hospital, wrote a research paper on "Breast Cancer" for International Cancer Conference in Hungary.

Known for his penchant for social work, Bhamre has conducted several free medical check-up camps and free surgeries for poor patients. He has also organised public education events to create awareness about cancer and its early detection and prevention, and health awareness programmes.

Bhamre is a member of the Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare apart from being a member of the Consultative Committee on the Ministry of Railways, and Committee on Welfare of Other Backward Classes.

During his university days, he was the vice-captain of Mumbai University Chess and basketball teams.