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

New Delhi, Jan 13 (PTI) President Pratibha Patil, VicePresident Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh todaygreeted the people on the occasion of Makar Sankranti andPongal and said these festivals bind the communities in a bondof love and affection.

"May these festivals bind the communities and regions ofIndia in a bond of love and affection and inspire us to workfor the unity and progress of our country," Patil said in amessage.

Ansari said that these festivals reflected the country''sglorious cultural traditions and promote the values ofsharing, generosity and goodwill among the people.

Extending his greetings, Singh said these traditionalharvest festivals signify renewal and provide an occasion toacknowledge the immense contribution of country''s farmers tothe well-being of the people.

"May these festivals usher in happiness and prosperityfor all," the Prime Minister said.

BJP President Nitin Gadkari also greeted the people ofIndia and NRIs abroad on the occasion.

"Nitin Gadkari has sent his warm greetings and bestwishes to the people of India and NRIs abroad on theauspicious occasion of Lohari, Makar Sakranti, Pongal andBihu," BJP said in a statement.

Gadkari said these festivals of joy, heralding theharvesting season, have a special significance in "our socialand cultural lives".