In identical, separate messages to Mukherjee and Ansari, he said, "On behalf of the Government and the people of Tamil Nadu, I wish you a Happy New Year, 2017. May God Almighty give you the strength to continue to serve the Nation with dedication."
Greeting the Prime Minister in another message, he said, "we look forward to the nation marching forward on the road to growth and prosperity under your leadership."
Later, he spoke with Rao over phone and greeted him and the latter thanked and reciprocated the new year wishes, a government release here said.