Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy main architect of modern Andhra Pradesh: Mukherjee

President Pranab Mukherjee attended the concluding ceremony of the Centenary Celebrations of Dr. Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy, former President of India, here today.

Speaking on the occasion, Mukherjee said Dr. Reddy was a true son of the soil and a farmer till his very last breath.

"He was the main architect of modern day Andhra Pradesh. As Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Dr. Reddy applied himself with vigour to the development and modernization of the state and the progress of its people. He is credited with giving shape to the plans for construction of the Nagarjuna Sagar, the Srisailam Project, the Sriram Sagar and the Vamsadhara projects which are, among the most important milestones in the development of this region," Mukherjee said.

The President said if Andhra Pradesh is hailed as the granary of South India, much credit is due to Dr. Sanjeeva Reddy.

Mukherjee described Dr. Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy as a role model in government and politics. He was greatly admired for his dignity in word and deed as well as his iron will in taking decisions and implementing them.

He said Dr Reddy had great compassion for the poor. He often voiced disquiet over the fact that minimum standards of nutrition, clothing, shelter, medical care and education were beyond the reach of many sections of the people of India and called for determined efforts to address these deficiencies.

He was also deeply concerned about the weakening of traditional values that have enabled diverse Indians live together in peace for centuries.

"Dr. Reddy's message continues to be of relevance today as we confront the challenges that our society is facing. They remind us of the important responsibility that we have as citizens of India. We must embrace the spirit of these guiding words as we pursue our individual goals," he said.

The President expressed his hope that the people of Ananthapuramu, the people of Andhra and the people of India will honour his memory by remaining true to the values that he stood for.