Indian president, PM greet nation for New Year ‎

Indian president, Pranab Mukherjee has greeted the nation for the New Year wishing 2015 be one of peace, progress and harmony.   “Let us abhor violence and maintain maximum vigilance against all efforts, from within or without, to disturb peace and security,”  Mukherjee said in a press release on the eve of New Year. “Let us celebrate pluralism and promote tolerance and understanding amongst all communities. Let the New Year be dedicated to the creation of an inclusive society where goodwill and brotherhood prevails amongst our people,” he urged.  Noting that a number of new beginnings have been made and important initiatives launched in 2014, the president urged their fruition.  “Development must reach the poor and under privileged across the length and breadth of our country,” Mukherjee said, adding, “Governance, at all levels, must become efficient, transparent, accountable and citizen friendly. Appealing particularly to ensure the protection of India’s women and greater gender sensitivity, he urged all to work with heart and soul and without distraction, to take the nation to “new heights of achievement.”

Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the social media on Thursday to wish the ‎nation a Happy New Year.  “Wishing you and your family a wonderful 2015! May this year bring ‎immense happiness, peace and prosperity in everyone’s lives,” the Prime Minister tweeted on his ‎Twitter account @narendramodi.  ‎