Prez, V-P, PM greet people on Makar Sankranti, Pongal

New Delhi, Jan 13 (PTI) Indian President Pratibha Patil,
Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh
on Thursday greeted the people on the occasion of Makar
Sankranti and Pongal and said these festivals bind the
communities in a bond of love and affection.
"May these festivals bind the communities and regions of
India in a bond of love and affection and inspire us to work
for the unity and progress of our country," Patil said in a
message.
Ansari said that these festivals reflected the country's
glorious cultural traditions and promote the values of
sharing, generosity and goodwill among the people.
Extending his greetings, Singh said these traditional
harvest festivals signify renewal and provide an occasion to
acknowledge the immense contribution of country's farmers to
the well-being of the people.
"May these festivals usher in happiness and prosperity
for all," the Prime Minister said.
BJP President Nitin Gadkari also greeted the people of
India and NRIs abroad on the occasion.
"Nitin Gadkari has sent his warm greetings and best
wishes to the people of India and NRIs abroad on the
auspicious occasion of Lohari, Makar Sakranti, Pongal and
Bihu," BJP said in a statement.
Gadkari said these festivals of joy, heralding the
harvesting season, have a special significance in "our social
and cultural lives". PTI MS
RCJ