Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on water conservation in the latest edition of Mann Ki Baat and his praise for the Indian Rail in taking the Jaldoot Express with 25 lakh litres of water to drought-hit Latur, Maharashtra, is well received. But Mr Modi’s emphasis on volunteer programmes doesn’t cut ice. If people have to take charge, why would they elect governments to fix policy loopholes and get distribution of resources right The water crisis is a result of policy paralysis and myopic planning, not lack of initiative by the people.

Ajmal Khan

Via email