The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh has wished J& K Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad well and assured him of continued support of the Union Government.

The following is the text of the Prime Minister's letter to Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad dated November 2, 2005.

"I have received your letter of 31st Oct, 2005 tendering your resignation from the Union Cabinet. You have been a valued colleague in the Union Cabinet and your contributions towards the work of your department and to the work of the Government as a whole are indeed commendable. The policy initiatives launched in the urban development sphere including ground work done for the launch of the Urban Renewal Mission are going to leave a lasting impact on our urban landscape. As a Minister of Parliamentary Affairs , you have contributed a great deal to the smooth and successful conduct of Government business in Parliament and ensured excellent coordination with all concerned.

Although there is a tinge of sadness on your departure from the Union Cabinet and you are going to be missed here, there is also a sense of joy that you are taking on a challenging assignment as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. I am sure you will be able to leave your imprint on the State. I wish you well in your future efforts and assure you of the continued support of the Union Government to all initiatives that will be taken in Jammu and Kashmir under your command."