New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for water conservation as he addressed the 87th edition of ‘Mann Ki Baat.’

“Summer heat is increasing very fast in most parts of the country. This rising heat equally increases our responsibility to save water. It is possible that there may be plenty of water available where you are now. But, you have to always remember the crores of people who live in water-stressed areas, for whom every drop of water is like elixir,” the Prime Minister said.

He said water conservation is one of the resolves with which the country is moving forward during the Amrit Mahotsav. He said 75 Amrit Sarovars will be built in every district of the country. “You can imagine how big the campaign is. The day is not far when there will be 75 Amrit Sarovars in your own city, ” he said.

History related to freedom struggle and freedom fighters can also be connected with Amrit Sarovar, he said adding that work has already started on it at many places at a rapid pace. “The availability of water and the scarcity of water, these determine the progress and speed of any country. You must have also noticed that in ‘Mann Ki Baat’, I do talk about water conservation again and again along with topics like cleanliness,” he said.

“Water is the basis of life of every living being and water is also the biggest resource, that is why our ancestors gave so much emphasis on water conservation,” he said and urged people to preserve ponds, wells and lakes in their areas.

“Every effort related to water is related to our tomorrow. It is the responsibility of the whole society. For this, different societies have made various efforts continuously for centuries,” he said and gave the example of Maldhari tribe from Rann of Kutch who uses a method called “Vridas” for water conservation. Under this, small wells are built and trees and plants are planted nearby to protect it.

Similarly, the Bhil tribe of Madhya Pradesh used their historical tradition “Halma” for water conservation. Under this tradition, people gather at one place to find a solution to the problems related to water. Due to the suggestions received from Halma tradition, the water crisis in this area has reduced and the ground water level is also increasing. He called upon people to save water drop by drop and save every single life.