Though some would argue they're just as big liabilities

P CHIDAMBARAM

He's brusque, he's blunt, but he's reinvented himself in tune with the UPA government's priorities. (Witness fringe benefits tax and cash withdrawal tax). A handpicked choice of the PM, and a pro at coalition budget making, he's emerged as a key pointman in the Cabinet. (So, despite those irritating taxes, he isn't likely to be relinquishing his seat any time soon!)

PRANAB MUKHERJEE

De facto and de jure number two in the government, Pranab-da is the first defence minister in years to spend all the money the finance ministry gave him. Experienced in West Bengal politics, he understands the compulsions of the Left -- but can't make up his mind about George Fernandes!

PRAFUL PATEL

Though he tends to forget he is minister for civil aviation and not a single airline, Patel has worked steadily and has results to show for it. Air India has approved the purchase of aircraft, airport privatisation is on fast track, airlines have been allowed to fly abroad and, mercifully, Patel is not obsessed with recruitment and toilette issues, unlike some predecessors.

Also read: Businessmen in Parliament