New Delhi, Dec 31: President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, Vice President Mohammed Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today greeted the people on the eve of New Year, wishing them peace, happiness and prosperity. ''As the sun rises over 2008, may this new year bring peace, prosperity and happiness to everyone,'' Ms Patil said in her message.

''In this new year, let us all strive to work for the betterment of the nation and do our little bit in making the world a better place by helping the under - privileged and the needy,'' she added. Mr Ansari said the dawn of the new year also ushered in new hopes and expectations. ''As millions of our citizens face the immense challenges of poverty, illiteracy and ill health, we should resolve to tackle these on a priority basis.

''This requires the concerted efforts of every one of us. The hopes and expectations of becoming a developed nation free from these problems, where every citizen can fully realise one's potential, can only be fulfilled when we resolve to work in unison with dedication and commitment.

''May the new year bring peace, happiness and prosperity in our lives,'' the Vice President said.

In his message, the Prime Minister said the new year was a time to reflect upon the year gone by and upon the successes, achievements and mistakes.

''It makes us wise to our strengths and weaknesses and gives us a chance to set new goals. It is a time for stocktaking and making a new start in achieving our individual and collective goals.

''As a nation, it is a time to rejoice in our democratic traditions and brace ourselves for future challenges. I wish 2008 brings peace, security and prosperity for the people world over,'' Dr Singh said.


UNI