Washington, Jan 5 (IANS): California physician Ami Bera, who has become the third Indian-American member of the US House of Representatives, has been named on three prestigious committees on foreign affairs, science, space and technology. Bera's parents migrated to the US from India in the 1950s.

Democrat Bera,47, who represents California's 7th Congressional district in the House, follows Amritsar-born Dalip Singh Saund, who represented a California district from 1957 to 1963, and Louisiana's current governor Bobby Jindal, who was a member from his state from 2005 to 2008.

"I am honoured to have been named to the House Foreign Affairs Committee," he said in a statement after he was named to the committee following his swearing-in Thursday.

"In an increasingly complex global landscape, relationships with other nations have tangible effects here at home and we need strategic thinking to guide our foreign policy in the 21st century.

The Sacramento region, which Bera represents, he said is "uniquely situated to benefit from opening up new markets for our goods and services around the world.

"That would help create jobs here at home. Through my new role on the Science, Space and Technology, I'll also work to foster innovative industries that can bring good jobs to the 7th district," he said.

Recalling his links to India, Bera said: My parents emigrated here from India in the 1950s with very little but the dream of a better life. I grew up believing America was a land of opportunity, where if you worked hard and played by the rules, you could reach your full potential."

"Thursday, my father was among those watching as I was sworn in to the US House of Representatives," he said.

My family's story isn't unique; it's the story of the American Dream. I will work every day to ensure that we continue to invest in the next generation and keep the American Dream alive."

"I am incredibly honoured humbled that the people of Sacramento County have placed their trust in me to represent them in the US House of Representatives," he said

"Now begins the hard work of addressing the many challenges facing our region and our country. I look forward to working with my new colleagues from both parties to find common ground and to rebuild an economy that works for the middle class," he said.

Raised in La Palma, California, Bera defeated three-term Republican incumbent Dan Lungren by a narrow margin.