Participation and Recognition
A total of 58 WaSH Warriors, nominated by States and Union Territories, attended the programme. They were also special guests at the Republic Day Parade on 26 January 2026 at Kartavya Path, recognising their contributions to rural development and community welfare. The selected individuals hailed from Swachh Sujal Gaon villages, including SC/ST-majority areas and vulnerable tribal communities, reflecting a nationwide representation of grassroots leadership.
Sharing Experiences from the Field
During the programme, WaSH Warriors shared their transformative journeys in improving water supply and sanitation at the village level. Shri Motilal from Bijrakchhar village, Chhattisgarh, described how access to tap water has improved health, particularly for women, and saved time previously spent fetching water. Shri Amrutbhai Parmar from Timbachudi village, Gujarat, highlighted model wells and sustainable water systems created under JJM, while Smt Lentsothsi from Tutheyo village, Nagaland, spoke of better health outcomes for children and increased household productivity. Ms Nijuma Devi from Kendukuchi village, Assam, detailed her initiatives promoting sustainable water practices and hygiene awareness among children and villagers.
Hon’ble Ministers Commend Efforts
The Hon’ble Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Shri C. R. Patil, congratulated the WaSH Warriors, urging them to continue adopting innovative water conservation and sanitation practices. Ministers of State Shri V. Somanna and Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary, along with senior officials including Shri V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Department of Water Resources, and Shri Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director General of National Mission for Clean Ganga, were present at the event.
The Union Minister highlighted the impact of the Jal Jeevan Mission, noting that over 9.5 crore women have benefited from access to tap water, saving an estimated 4.5 crore hours, enhancing safety, and enabling improved family and personal well-being. He also emphasised youth engagement initiatives like Youth for Ganga – Youth for Yamuna to foster water conservation awareness among school children.
Publication and Outreach
During the Samvad Samaroh, a JJM booklet titled “Peyjal: Jan Shakti Ki Abhivyakti – Volume II” was released, documenting the stories and achievements of WaSH Warriors. On 25 January 2026, these special guests had visited the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya and interacted with senior officials at the Pandit Deendayal Antyodaya Bhawan, further highlighting the importance of community engagement in national development.
Impact and Legacy
The recognition of WaSH Warriors underscores the pivotal role of local communities in advancing water and sanitation goals. Their contributions reflect the spirit of Jan Bhagidari, demonstrating how collective effort, innovation, and community-led governance can transform rural India.
