New Delhi, Aug. 5 -- A crucial meeting on the inter-state water issue was held under the Chairmanship of Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil on Tuesday and attended by the Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

Haryana Chief Minister later told the media that the meeting marked a significant step forward in the ongoing dialogue over the SYL issue between Haryana and Punjab.

The talks were held in a cordial and cooperative atmosphere, he said.

"This is a long-standing issue. A positive discussion was held on July 9. It took a step forward today. I am sure that when we go to the court on August 13, the atmosphere will be even more positive," he told reporters.

He said that the issue has been und...