For Atal, premiership is a "temporary halt"

Stating that the nuclear tests were carried out as a deterrent against any foreign aggression on the country’s sovereignity and not as a weapon of offence, the prime minister said it was equally important to ensure internal security, food, clothing, shelter, education and primary medicare for all.

Earlier, Vajpayee released a dove and accepted bouquets and greeting cards fromtiny-tots, who marched down from Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate, shouting slogans such as “long live the prime minister”. Two children dressed as Santa Claus, presentation of a kite marked India on it by two Muslim boys and playing of patriotic numbers by school bands drew loud cheers from one and all.

Earlier on the day, Vajpayee was felicitated by President K R Narayanan, Vice President Krishan Kant and a number of other leaders. Narayanan, accompanied by the first lady, was among the first to greet Vajpayee at his residence. The other early callers included home minister L K Advani and several Cabinet colleagues.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi and leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Sharad Pawar rang up to convey their greetings. Manmohan Singh, I K Gujral, BJP President Kushabhau Thakre and members and Archibishop Alan De Lastic also greeted him.

Among others who turned up to greet the PM were a group of school children and members of the National Federation of the Blind and Arya Anathalaya. Onthe occasion, Vajpayee distributed blankets to the poor and the destitute who had assembled at his residence. A steady stream of dignitaries including Cabinet colleagues, MPs and others called on him to wish him.