Addressing a felicitation function in his honour held by the Madras Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), he said India has been able to insulate its economy to a great extent from the current worldwide economic crisis.
"Nothing can be more dangerous than negative sentiments in your ranks. I am sure you will continue to radiate confidence and drive the development process with courage, a spirit of adventure and confidence," he said.
Referring to the current world economic crisis, Mukherjee, who was till recently the Finance Minister, said although the adverse effects were felt in India, the country has been able to insulate the economy to a great extent thanks to government's cautious fiscal policy and management of the economic sector and to its many internal strengths.
"We have a huge domestic market, and we are endowed with a wealth of natural, human and intellectual resources," he added.
Mukherjee said he would prioritise education for all, sustainable development and creation of more and more 'green' buildings, residential complexes, corporate offices and similar projects aimed at safeguarding environment.
"From simple community events such as planting of trees- to longer term programmes of protecting our habitat and precious heritage