NEW DELHI: With a large part of India battling heatwave conditions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urged people to take adequate precautions and help others. Later, at a Cabinet meeting, he called for a whole-of-nation approach in dealing with the scorching summer, with various departments asked to take measures to bring relief to citizens.
Cabinet Meeting Highlights
Modi told his ministerial colleagues that a collaborative effort from central and state governments, various departments, the private sector, and citizens was the need of the hour. Information and broadcasting minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told reporters at the Cabinet briefing, "Every ministry and department was urged to see what actions and steps they can take to bring relief to citizens and provide necessary facilities, particularly ministries like health and water resources."
Direct Appeal to Citizens
The Prime Minister also directly reached out to citizens on social media and asked them to be guided by compassion in this "extreme heat", emphasising the need to help those around them and to animals and birds as well by keeping bowls of water outside their homes. He said, "... parts of India are witnessing soaring temperatures and the challenges that come with it. This heat is harsh on all of us and I urge you all to take as many precautions as possible. Please stay hydrated, keep water with you when stepping out. Offer a glass of water to others. In weather like this, such kindness goes a long way."
The government's call for a coordinated response underscores the severity of the heatwave conditions affecting large parts of the country. Citizens are advised to follow safety guidelines, stay indoors during peak hours, and look out for vulnerable groups.
