The Rajya Sabha, in its post-lunch session, has taken up discussion on the situation arising out of prevailing drought and heat wave conditions and water crisis in the country. <br/><br/>Participating in the discussion former Agriculture Minister and NCP MP, Sharad Pawar described the situation as very serious saying crores of people in eleven states are adversely affected by the drought situation and shortage of drinking water. <br/><br/>He called for long-term and short-term measures to tackle the situation rising above political considerations. Mr Pawar also said the drought assistance given by the centre is inadequate keeping in view the demand from the states. <br/><br/>He suggested completion of pending irrigation projects. He pointed out 312 irrigation projects are waiting completion in different states including Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra. The discussion is continuing.