Kovind, Modi, Rahul greet Arunachal, Mizoram on Statehood Day

New Delhi, Feb 20 (IANS) President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday greeted the people of Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram on their Statehood Day.

"Greetings to the people of Arunachal Pradesh on Statehood Day. Arunachal Pradesh is a jewel of the northeast and is blessed with spectacular natural beauty and a rich culture that we are all proud of. My best wishes to this state for a bright future," the President tweeted.

Greeting the people of Mizoram, Kovind said: "Fondly remember the warmth of the people of the state and the loving reception that I received during my visit. My best wishes to this beautiful state in its development journey."

Modi also took to Twitter, where he said thatthe culture of Arunachal Pradesh was special.

"Greetings to the people of Arunachal Pradesh on their Statehood Day. The culture of Arunachal Pradesh is special and its people are known for their wonderful nature as well as patriotic zeal. May the state continue to prosper in the years to come."

"Best wishes on Mizoram Statehood Day. The people of Mizoram are known for their valour and rich value systems. The entire nation is proud of the Mizo culture and the contribution of the state towards India's progress. Praying for Mizoram's growth in the coming years," he said.

The Congress chief also congratulated the two states in a series of tweets.

"I extend my warm greetings to the wonderful people of Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram on their Statehood Day."

In 1972, the North East Frontier Agency was named Arunachal Pradesh and granted Union Territory status. It took 15 more years before Arunachal Pradesh attained its statehood.

Mizoram attained statehood on February 20, 1987.