Vaisakhi, Bihu and Puthandu Pirappu are being celebrated today across the country. The harvest festivals also marked beginning of the traditional new year in different states. President, Vice President and Prime Minister have greeted the nation on the occasion. In her message, Mrs. Pratibha Devisingh Patil extended best wishes to all citizens and the farming communities across the country and especially in Punjab. She expressed hope that the celebration will strengthen the contributions of farmers to the nation’s prosperity. The Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari in his message said, these festivals reaffirm the unity among the citizens and contribute towards nation’s progress. In his message, the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said these traditional new year festivals coinciding with the harvest, are an occasion to rejoice over the fruits of the hard work of farmers. Dr. Singh wished that these festivals usher in prosperity and happiness for all.