In a strong recognition of grassroots leadership and community participation, the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS), Ministry of Jal Shakti, has invited 58 WaSH Warriors from villages across India as Special Guests to attend the 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. The initiative, led by the National Jal Jeevan Mission (NJJM), celebrates the vital role played by rural communities in advancing safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene (WaSH) across the country.
WaSH Warriors Represent Community-Led Transformation
The selected WaSH Warriors have been nominated by States and Union Territories from Swachh Sujal Gaon villages, representing rural households, poor and marginalised communities, SC/ST-majority villages, and vulnerable tribal groups.
A Swachh Sujal Gaon is a village that is:
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Har Ghar Jal certified under the Jal Jeevan Mission, and
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ODF Plus Model verified under Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen)
These community leaders exemplify grassroots leadership, having played a key role in strengthening drinking water supply systems, sanitation practices and hygiene awareness in rural India.
Special Seating at Republic Day Parade and Official Participation
On 26 January 2026, the WaSH Warriors will witness the Republic Day Parade from the Sone Enclosure at Kartavya Path.
Shri Ashok K. K. Meena, Secretary, DDWS, will participate in the Republic Day celebrations from the Ghaghra (S) Enclosure, underscoring the importance accorded to community-driven development under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
Interaction with Jal Shakti Minister Scheduled
As part of their official programme, on 27 January 2026, the Special Guests will:
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Visit the Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra, and
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Interact with the Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri C. R. Patil, in the presence of
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Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Shri V. Somanna
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Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhry
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This engagement reflects the Government’s commitment to directly connecting policymakers with grassroots change-makers.
Visit to Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya and Interaction with DDWS Leadership
As part of their exposure programme, the WaSH Warriors visited the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya on 25 January 2026.
Following this, a detailed interaction was organised at Pandit Deendayal Antyodaya Bhawan, New Delhi, led by Shri Kamal Kishore Soan, Additional Secretary & Mission Director, National Jal Jeevan Mission, along with senior officers of DDWS.
Strengthening Commitment to Sustainable Rural Water Systems
Addressing the gathering, Shri Kamal Kishore Soan emphasised that while significant progress has been achieved under the Jal Jeevan Mission, sustained community ownership remains essential. He urged the WaSH Warriors to focus on:
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Ensuring 24×7 water supply
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Safeguarding and maintaining JJM infrastructure
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Promoting long-term sustainability of rural water systems
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Ensuring that Har Ghar Jal benefits every household
He encouraged them to take back the message of service, sustainability and community responsibility to their villages, strengthening the spirit of Jan Bhagidari.
Voices from Villages Reflect Transformational Impact
Several WaSH Warriors shared deeply moving experiences:
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Representatives from Kupwara, Jammu & Kashmir spoke about the years of hardship before tap water reached their villages and how access to clean water restored dignity to daily life.
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Delegates from tribal areas of Chhattisgarh echoed similar struggles, highlighting the relief brought by household tap connections.
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Participants from Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, who recently celebrated Jal Arpan Diwas, expressed gratitude for how tap water has:
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Reduced the burden on women
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Given children more time for education
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Improved health and overall well-being
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WaSH Warriors from Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Gujarat and other states also shared stories of transformation, reflecting the nationwide impact of the mission.
Warm Reception Across Delhi Reflects National सम्मान
Upon their arrival in Delhi, the WaSH Warriors were warmly welcomed by the National Jal Jeevan Mission at:
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Airports
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Railway stations
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Bus terminals
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State Bhawans
This heartfelt reception underscored the respect and recognition accorded to their contributions in advancing rural water and sanitation.
Visit to National War Memorial and India Gate to Conclude Programme
The Delhi visit of the Special Guests will conclude on 27 January 2026 with a visit to the National War Memorial and India Gate, adding a strong emotional and patriotic dimension to their experience in the national capital.
Conclusion
By inviting 58 WaSH Warriors as Special Guests for Republic Day 2026, the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation has powerfully reaffirmed that nation-building is rooted in community participation. Their presence at Kartavya Path symbolises the success of Jan Bhagidari and highlights how rural citizens are at the heart of India’s journey towards equitable, sustainable and inclusive development. The initiative stands as a tribute to those who are transforming lives through access to safe drinking water and dignified sanitation.
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Source: PIB
