President greets nation on Id-ul-Fitr, Gandhi Jayanti

New Delhi, Oct 1 : President Pratibha Patil today greeted the nation on the occasion of Id-ul-Fitr and Gandhi Jayanti, which will be celebrated tomorrow.

In her message, Patil said, "I take great pleasure in extending my greetings and good wishes to all fellow citizens. This festival brings joy and happiness to all and especially to those who have observed fasting during the holy month of Ramzan."

"May this year's festival inspire all of us to strengthen the principles of friendship and mutual goodwill among our people. Let us on this day of festivity re-dedicate ourselves to come forward in the service of the poor and the needy," the President added.

On the occasion, Patil has also decided to send woollens and dry ration such as rice, ghee, dal and sugar to various institutions in Delhi.

The institutions to whom these items are being sent are: Bachchon Ka Ghar, Bachiyon Ka Ghar, Madarsa Islamika Hifzulqunaan, Zakat Foundation of India, Hope Foundation, Association for Advancement and Rehabilitation of Handicapped, Delhi Cheshire Home and Arya Mahila Aashram.

On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, the President said that the life and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi are a lesson in tolerance and respect for humanity.

"The significance of Gandhiji's philosophy of non-violence and peace is relevant today as never before. On this day each one of us must spread the idea and thought behind his philosophy of pacifism whose goal was to solve problems of conflict and violence. Mahatma Gandhi was always trying to find peaceful means to resolve them. He knew that the key was to restructure the world by liberating the human mind from dogmas of various kinds," she said.

"On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, let us dedicate ourselves to the ideals and work of this great soul," the President added.

ANI