President, PM greet people on harvest fest

PM says the festivals reminded people that agriculture and farming were linked to the culture of the country.

President APJ Abdul Kalam and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday greeted people on the occasion of Makara Sankranti and Pongal, two harvest festivals celebrated on Sunday and Monday respectively.

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Greeting citizens on the occasion, Kalam said: "Makara Sankranti and Pongal are symbolic of the happiness of our people for the coming of the harvest seasons.

"May these festivals, which represent India's emotional unity, continue to drive our people to work for the progress of the nation."

In his message, Manmohan Singh said the festivals reminded the people that agriculture and farming were linked to the culture of the country.

"These festivals are celebration of the joy and prosperity which are ushered in by a fresh harvest. Agriculture and farming are closely linked to our ethos, culture and lifestyle.

"These festivals celebrate this intrinsic link which is necessary for us to maintain even as we move ahead in the modern era. May these festivals bring prosperity, happiness and joy for all," the prime minister said.

Pongal is celebrated for four days and is one of the most important harvest festivals of south India. Pongal is an occasion when people thank nature for the bountiful harvest.

Makara Sankranti is celebrated when the sun enters the Makara raasi (the zodiac sign of Capricorn - the goat).