Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Steel, Dharmendra Pradhan has described the former President Pranab Mukherjee as a "statesman' and a 'doyen of Indian politics'. In a tweet, the Minister said 'Pranab da's  passing away is a personal loss for him. He leaves behind a lasting legacy and a void in Indian polity that will be difficult to fill'.<br />'' <br />''<span style="color: #222222;">On the other hand, Chief Minister of Odisha Naveen Patnaik expressing his deep sorrow over the demise of the former President said Pranab da was a prolific reader, powerful orator, scholar and had an unparalleled experience in governance.  In a tweet, Mr. Patnaik said he will always be remembered for his exceptional ability to forge consensus on national issues.</span><br />