President, PM greet nation on New Year festivals

New Delhi, Apr 14 (UNI) President APJ Abdul Kalam and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh have greeted the people on the auspicious occasions of Baisakhi, Bahag Bihu, Naba Varsha, Puthandu Pirappu, Rongali Bihu and Vishu, saying these harvest festivals provide an opportunity to acknowledge the traditionally significant contribution of ''our farmers'' in the nation-building.

Dr Kalam, in a message today, said these festivals, celebrated in different parts of the country, herald the New Year and ''denote the underlying unity of our rich and diverse culture and strengthen the pluralistic heritage of our nation.'' The President also made an appeal to the people to resolve on these joyous occasions to strengthen mutual understanding and work for peace, happiness and well-being of ''all our people''.

Dr Singh, in his message, said the harvest festivals gave an occasion to ''salute our farmers for their great contribution to the Nation's food security. May these festivals bring peace, prosperity and happiness for all.'' UNI SKS MSJ ND1252