President Pratibha Patil [Images] on Friday released a book titled Abhinandan Granth - Kalpavraksh on Madhya Pradesh Governor Balram Jakhar.

Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh [Images] said that it was indeed a privilege to know Dr Jakhar and to be part of the distinguished gathering to welcome him.

"Dr Jakhar is one of our tallest leaders in public life -- in more senses than one. He has long been admired for his deep and sincere commitment to the cause of the Indian farmer. He is a scholar, a first rate administrator, a farmers' leader and above all a deeply secular and patriotic Indian," according to a press hand note issued by the Prime Minister's Office.

Recalling his meetings with Dr Jakhar, Dr Singh noted that the tall Jat leader from Punjab had deep knowledge about agriculture, besides knowledge of national politics and that was the reason why he was called Pandit Balram Jakhar.

"I am delighted to join all of you in wishing Dr Balram Jakhar a long and purposeful life ahead. India needs such men of courage and conviction in public life," Dr Manmohan Singh said.