Water and kindness: Why PM's mantra to tackle soaring summer heat clicks
As parts of India are witnessing soaring temperatures, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has advised Indians to show kindness, and offer a glass of water to others. His message is not just about staying hydrated. His message, in line with India's age-old traditions, can become a lifeline for someone in this extreme heat.
Offering water to guests or absolute strangers has been part of India's age-old tradition. That is what is behind the community water service points that we get to see. People also keep earthen pots outside their homes for passersby. Earthen bowls for birds. With the mercury touching dangerous levels in several parts of India and imperilling lives, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reminded how a glass of water and some kindness can go a long way.
Noting that parts of India were "witnessing soaring temperatures and the challenges that come with it", PM Modi took to X on Wednesday to suggest precautions. "This heat is harsh on all of us, and I urge you all to take as many precautions as possible. Please stay hydrated, keep water with you when stepping out," he wrote.
"Offer a glass of water to others. In weather like this, such kindness goes a long way," he wrote.
An economy runs on the shoulders of people who are working in the open. From construction labourers to gig workers, millions of Indians have the burning sun over their heads all day long. PM Modi asked Indians to be vigilant and watch out for signs of heatstroke.
"Watch for signs of heat exhaustion like dizziness, nausea, or extreme fatigue. If someone around you feels unusually unwell, weak or develops a headache, it is best to help move them to a cool and shaded place immediately. Ensure they get water, ORS, etc. that helps them," he advised.
Modi pointed out that people working outdoors are in particular vulnerable to heatstrokes. He asked people for timely intervention.
"Children, the elderly and those working outdoors are especially vulnerable during extreme heat. Ignoring these warning signs can quickly turn dangerous and may even lead to heatstroke. In such weather, timely care and attention go a long way," he wrote on X.
PM Modi has on several occasions sought public action. He has appealed to people to contribute for the greater social good. During the Covid pandemic, Modi urged people to take the responsibility for feeding or supporting at least one poor family. He also appealed to financially better-off citizens to not deduct salaries of employees or domestic help during the crisis.
Not everything can be taken care of by the government machinery, and timely action by the community is needed. The summer heat is one such time.
Modi's appeal was for not just humans. He has asked Indians to be compassionate about birds and animals. Several videos have gone viral that have revealed how birds and animals were desperate for water.
"In this extreme heat, let us also remember the birds and animals around us. A small bowl of water kept outside your home, balconies, terraces, shops or offices can become a lifeline for a thirsty bird," Modi wrote on X, adding, "May compassion guide us in these difficult days."
Now is the time for us citizens to turn the concern into action. As PM Modi pointed out, surviving the scorching summer heat is not just about protecting ourselves, but also looking out for those who spend hours under the blazing sun to keep daily life moving.
From delivery workers racing against time to street vendors, construction labourers, and sanitation staff, millions continue to work outdoors despite the punishing heat. Sometimes, all it takes is a glass of water, a shaded spot to rest for a few minutes, or a small gesture of kindness to make a difference.
In India, where offering water has long been seen as an act of humanity, PM Modi's appeal is also a reminder that compassion can become one of the simplest ways to stay safe from a harsh summer.
Offering water to guests or absolute strangers has been part of India's age-old tradition. That is what is behind the community water service points that we get to see. People also keep earthen pots outside their homes for passersby. Earthen bowls for birds. With the mercury touching dangerous levels in several parts of India and imperilling lives, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reminded how a glass of water and some kindness can go a long way.
Noting that parts of India were "witnessing soaring temperatures and the challenges that come with it", PM Modi took to X on Wednesday to suggest precautions. "This heat is harsh on all of us, and I urge you all to take as many precautions as possible. Please stay hydrated, keep water with you when stepping out," he wrote.
"Offer a glass of water to others. In weather like this, such kindness goes a long way," he wrote.
An economy runs on the shoulders of people who are working in the open. From construction labourers to gig workers, millions of Indians have the burning sun over their heads all day long. PM Modi asked Indians to be vigilant and watch out for signs of heatstroke.
"Watch for signs of heat exhaustion like dizziness, nausea, or extreme fatigue. If someone around you feels unusually unwell, weak or develops a headache, it is best to help move them to a cool and shaded place immediately. Ensure they get water, ORS, etc. that helps them," he advised.
Modi pointed out that people working outdoors are in particular vulnerable to heatstrokes. He asked people for timely intervention.
"Children, the elderly and those working outdoors are especially vulnerable during extreme heat. Ignoring these warning signs can quickly turn dangerous and may even lead to heatstroke. In such weather, timely care and attention go a long way," he wrote on X.
PM Modi has on several occasions sought public action. He has appealed to people to contribute for the greater social good. During the Covid pandemic, Modi urged people to take the responsibility for feeding or supporting at least one poor family. He also appealed to financially better-off citizens to not deduct salaries of employees or domestic help during the crisis.
Not everything can be taken care of by the government machinery, and timely action by the community is needed. The summer heat is one such time.
Modi's appeal was for not just humans. He has asked Indians to be compassionate about birds and animals. Several videos have gone viral that have revealed how birds and animals were desperate for water.
"In this extreme heat, let us also remember the birds and animals around us. A small bowl of water kept outside your home, balconies, terraces, shops or offices can become a lifeline for a thirsty bird," Modi wrote on X, adding, "May compassion guide us in these difficult days."
Now is the time for us citizens to turn the concern into action. As PM Modi pointed out, surviving the scorching summer heat is not just about protecting ourselves, but also looking out for those who spend hours under the blazing sun to keep daily life moving.
From delivery workers racing against time to street vendors, construction labourers, and sanitation staff, millions continue to work outdoors despite the punishing heat. Sometimes, all it takes is a glass of water, a shaded spot to rest for a few minutes, or a small gesture of kindness to make a difference.
In India, where offering water has long been seen as an act of humanity, PM Modi's appeal is also a reminder that compassion can become one of the simplest ways to stay safe from a harsh summer.
