Prez, PM greet people on harvest festivals

President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today greeted the nation on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, Lohri and Pongal and hoped that the festivals will herald growth and progress.
In his message the President said, "I convey my greetings and best wishes to all citizens of India and wish them every prosperity and happiness.
"May the celebrations reinforce the ties that bind us together as a nation, in peace and harmony. May the harvest herald the beginning of further growth and progress and inspire us to work for the overall development of our country."
Singh noted that Sankranti indicates the beginning of a traditionally auspicious period of the year. Lohri and Pongal are harvest festivals, and an occasion to celebrate the contribution of farmers and traditional ethos, culture and economy.

"All these festivals mark a new beginning," he said in his message.
"May these festivals bring prosperity and joy to all," the Prime Minister said.
Lohri falls tomorrow while Pongal and Makar Sankranti will be celebrated on January 14.