Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stressed on coordinated effort between the Centre and States for proactive implement of advance action plan for the monsoon, with districts as the unit of planning.

Mr. Modi today chaired a high-level meeting to review the progress of the monsoon in the country. The meeting was attended by Ministers for Home, Finance, Agriculture, Food and Consumer Affairs and Water Resources and Cabinet Secretary.

He also reviewed the position of water reservoirs and fodder stock and directed that maximum possible use be made of the existing water resources and best practices in rainwater harvesting.

During the meeting, the Meteorological Department officials apprised him of the monsoon status and said that though it has been delayed, rainfall is likely to improve substantially in the months of July and August.

The Prime Minister also said that the states should set up special courts for speedy trial of hoarders and black-marketeers to contain inflation. It was observed that the measures taken by the government are bearing a positive effect, with adequate rice stocks reaching markets and availability of onion in Delhi.

Mr. Modi emphasized on ensuring adequate power and seed availability for the agricultural sector, and directed that MGNREGA be used to generate rural employment, if necessary.