Lok Sabha today took up discussion on the situation arising out of drought and drinking water crisis in different parts of the country. <br/><br/>Initiating the discussion, BJP MP Jagdambika Pal expressed concern over the situation and stressed on the need for water conservation in to tackle the problem. He said providing short term relief to the affected farmers and states is not a permanent solution. <br/><br/>Mr. Pal said interlinking of rivers in the country can only address the drought problem on permanent basis. Ashok Chouhan of Congress said around 240 districts in different states are affected by drought and centre should release a white paper on the steps taken and on the proposed action to address the issue. <br/><br/>He also demanded convening an all party meetings in affected sates to chalk out a comprehensive plan in this regard. He also urged the government to think of waving loans of farmers and providing free seed and fertilizers. The member also spoke about the need for setting up desalination plants in coastal areas. The discussion remained inconclusive.