Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee today submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh at his residence. Mr. Mukherjee came out and told the media that he has tendered his resignation to the Prime minister.

Earlier speaking to newsmen at his North Block office on his last day as Finance Minister, Mr. Mukherjee said, he is hounoured and humbled by the support extended to him as he stands ready for the Presidential elections as the candidate of UPA-II. Mr. Mukherjee said, his UPA candidature for the Presidential polls enjoys the support of the Samajwadi party, the BSP, the JDU, the Shiv Sena, the CPI(M), Forward Block and some other parties.

Mr. Mukherjee said he is ready to embark upon a new journey. He said, as finance minister he has taken tough decisions in the interest of the people. He also thanked the media for their appreciation and their criticism and asked them to continue their duty as long he continues in public office.

Mr Pranab Mukherjee is to file nomination papers for the Presidential election on Thursday.