Dedicate 2013 to improving women's safety: Pranab

The brutal gang-rape of a girl in the national capital was the focus of President Pranab Mukherjee's New Year message which called for dedicating 2013 for improving security and welfare of women in the country and addressing the mindset which is at the root of such incidents.

In a touching message, the President said "we mark the advent of the New Year under a pall of gloom, as the nation mourns the tragic loss of a brave young girl who became the victim of a heinous crime."

He asked the people to dedicate 2013 to improving the security and welfare of women in our country.

"Let us use this moment to introspect and earnestly seek ways in which we can address the mindset which lies at the root of such incidents in order that we may achieve dignity and equality for women in our country," he said.

Extending his wishes for a purposeful and productive New year, the President said "let us strive hard to fulfill our unrealised dreams with vigour and determination."