The festival of lights – Diwali is being celebrated throughout the country today. The festival symbolises the removal of darkness and gloom and bringing peace, happiness and prosperity in the life of people.

In the National Capital, Police have tightened security arrangements to avoid any untoward incident. Extra police personnel have been deployed at various places including major markets, bus stops, Metro stations and public places. President, Vice President, Prime Minister and UPA Chairperson have greeted the people on the occasion.

In their separate messages, Mrs. Pratibha Devisingh Patil, Mohd. Hamid Ansari, Dr. Manmohan Singh and Mrs. Sonia Gandhi expressed hope that the festival of lights will dispel darkness and gloom and bring joy, happiness and prosperity to the people.
In the United States, Senate passed a resolution greeting Hindus, Sikhs and Jains in the US and across the globe on the occasion of Diwali. Noting that Diwali is a festival of great significance to Indian Americans and South Asian Americans, the Senate lauded the universal message of compassion it offers to the world.

British Prime Minister David Cameron recounted the contribution of British Indians to National life during an event to celebrate Diwali at his official residence, 10, Downing Street in London.

Calling it his 'second Diwali celebration as Prime Minister, Mr. Cameron told the gathering of prominent Britons of Indian origin, and others, that the contribution of the Indian community to British national life is great.