In a letter addressed to all Chief Ministers the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, has urged State and Union Territory governments to be fully prepared to tackle the consequences of both drought and floods.

Writing on the eve of the onset of the south-west monsoon, the Prime Minister has said:

"This year, the Meteorological department has predicted a normal monsoon. However, while this may turn out to be accurate at an aggregate level, it is possible that there may be variations at regional and local levels. I would, therefore, like to draw your special attention to the possibilities of drought or floods in the coming months and the need to take adequate precautionary measures in advance so that we are not found wanting in preparedness in any eventuality. As of now we are hopeful that no such calamity may visit us. Nevertheless, it would be prudent and desirable that you may review the situation in your State keeping in view your previous experience and gear up the State machinery at all levels to be prepared."

The Prime Minister has suggested that in chronically rain deficient areas arrangements should be made to provide wage employment, drinking water, foodgrains and fodder. In flood prone areas, all normal precautionary steps should be taken to save lives and property in the eventuality of floods. In regions where heavy rains tend to disrupt all communication the P.M. has advised that adequate stocks of grain and other essential items of consumption should be stored to meet the needs of the people.

The Prime Minister has assured the full cooperation of the Government of India in meeting any unforeseen situation.