The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee presented the Rajbhasha awards on the occasion of Hindi Diwas at a function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (September 14, 2016).

Speaking on the occasion, the President extended his greetings and felicitations to fellow countrymen on the occasion of Hindi Diwas. He said Hindi is the soul of Indianess and plays an important role as a link language. We have to encourage translations of Hindi literature into other Indian regional languages and vice-versa. This will deepen relations between Hindi and regional languages.

The President called upon people to learn historical, cultural and literary aspects of different cultures. He said when people of India will come to understand that our past and present is one, our literature and culture is one, national unity will be strengthened.

The President congratulated the award winners for their commendable contribution to the propagation of Hindi. He also called upon people to contribute their utmost for the progress of Hindi.

This release issued at 1800 hrs.