Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on Thursday asked partymen to gear up for polls to ensure a second term for the Bharatiya Janata Party-led coalition at the Centre.

He also said the party's rivals would not be able to cobble up a coalition despite making attempts.

Addressing thousands of party workers gathered at his residence to greet him on his 79th birthday, a beaming Vajpayee impressed upon the party rank and file that there was no room for complacency after its spectacular victory in the three states as 'time is important'.

"Vijay hai, per vishram nahi. Samay ka mahatva hai (One cannot rest after the victory in the recent assembly elections as time is important)," he said.

He, however, did not mention whether the Lok Sabha election would be held as scheduled.

In an obvious reference to Congress, he said that though others were also trying to firm up an alliance, but they will not succeed.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Uma Bharti, while wishing Vajpayee 'long and illustrious life', said he had introduced politics of consensus in the country and strengthened the federal system.

"By virtue of his efficiency, exemplary conduct and towering personality, Atalji has earned great respect that only a few statesmen receive," she said in Bhopal.

In Chennai, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam chief and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi, while extending his greetings, said Vajpayee's contributions were appreciated by all sections of the society.

"As the tallest surviving leader of the country, your unrelenting service in carrying the nation through the years of crisis is appreciated by all sections of the society," he said. He wished that Vajpayee's service to the nation would continue for years to come.