The President of India, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, has accepted the resignation of the following members from the Council of Ministers, with immediate effect:-

1. Shri Dayanidhi Maran - Minister of Textiles

2. Shri Murli Deora - Minister of Corporate Affairs

3. Shri B.K. Handique - Minister of Development of North Eastern Region

4. Dr. M.S. Gill - Minister of Statistics and Programme Implementation

5. Shri Kanti Lal Bhuria - Minister of Tribal Affairs

6. Shri A. Sai Prathap - Minister of State for Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises

7. Shri Arun S. Yadav - Minister of State for Agriculture & Food Processing Industries

The release issued at 1245 hrs