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.

Seven more candidates have filed their nomination for the Presidential Election 2012 today. Returing officer for the Presidential Election and Secretary General of Rajya Sabha V K Agnihotri rejected the nomination of Jeevan Kumar Mittal of Delhi for not submitting certified copy of electoral roll entry. He has also not deposited the security money of 15000 rupees.

Till date 33 nominations filed by 31 candidates, but eight candidate’s nomination were rejected by the Returning Officer. Former speaker P A Sangma have also not filed his nomination for the Presidential Election yet.