India, Nov. 5 -- Despite heavy rains and floods this year, many parts of Maharashtra received deficient rainfall. 70 per cent area of the state falls under semi-arid region. Maharashtra has declared drought three times in the last five years. Even after spending thousands of crores on irrigation and drinking water projects, the drought leaves people in the lurch every year. Maharashtra has many big rivers like Godavari, Penganga, Wainganga, Wardha, Krishna, Koyana, Bhima, Indravati, Tapi, Purna, etc. But all rivers are rain fed. So, we need to use these precious water resources carefully and wisely.

In the backdrop of water crisis and drought, Israel can be role model for Maharashtra in water management. Farmers of the state have been ir...