By Ravinder Singh Robin

On Board (Air India One), Apr 14 : President Pratibha Patil has greeted the countrymen on the occasion of Baisakhi, Ram Navami and the beginning of the New Year.

President Patil sent her greetings while enroute to Brazil from Lisbon, Portugal on her state visit to Brazil, Mexico and Chile.

"On the occasion of the auspicious occasion of Baisakhi, New Year, Puthandu Pirappu, Rongali Bihu, Vishu and Ram Navami, I offer my greetings and good wishes to all my countrymen," she said. She added: "Celebrated in wide variety of ways in different parts of our country, these festivals reflect our diversity and pluralistic tradition and strengthen the pluralistic heritage of our nation. May these festivals inspire all to work for the well being, progress, prosperity and peace of the nation." While enroute to Sao Paulo from Lisbon in her special aircraft "Air India One", the President took a round in the plane and greeted media and other officials accompanying her during her two-week long visit to Latin American countries.

ANI