The event will feature discussions on challenges and strategies in sanitation, emphasizing the critical role of women as catalysts for change. This platform will enable a rich exchange of ideas, enhancing collaboration at national and grassroots levels, and advancing the Swachh Bharat Mission. On 25th January, 2024 Union Minister and Minister of State to address and interact with women change makers who have worked on various components of SBM-G such as sustaining ODF status, Solid & Liquid Waste Management, Plastic Waste Management, etc. On 26th January 2024, woman change makers will attend the 75th Republic Day parade with the theme as ''India – Mother of Democracy'' and ''Viksit Bharat''. They will also witness the two all-women marching contingents from the Ministry of Defence forces. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched SBM-G in 2014 and since then it has completely overhauled the sanitation sector in India as over 5lakh villages declared themselves as Open Defecation Free Plus as of 1st January 2024 Acknowledging women change makers aims to bring the women achievers from the grassroots to the forefront and motivate others to work towards a ‘Sampoorna Swachh Bharat’

 

On the auspicious occasion of India’s 75^th Republic Day, the Ministry of Jal Shakti proudly announces a two-day event celebrating the invaluable contributions of women change makers in the Swachh Bharat Mission. Scheduled for tomorrow at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, this event is more than a gathering—it’s a milestone in recognizing and elevating the role of women in shaping a cleaner, healthier India.

This event brings together over 475 women from 27 States/UTs in a vibrant dialogue with the Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Minister of State of Jal Shakti, Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar. It's a platform not just for celebration but for meaningful policy discussions. These interactions will focus on commemorating the achievements of these women change makers, appreciating their relentless efforts in the sanitation sector, and providing an opportunity for insightful exchanges that could influence future policy directions. The agenda centers around the challenges and strides made in maintaining Open Defecation Free (ODF) status and managing solid and liquid waste in villages. The event will also spotlight the "Swachhata Shakti: Stories of woman transforming India’s sanitation at the grassroots," a tribute to the exemplary work of these dedicated women.

Moreover, this assembly is a step towards integrating grassroots experiences with national policymaking. It will offer these women change makers a unique opportunity to share their stories, thereby inspiring others and fostering a collaborative approach to addressing sanitation issues across India.

The Republic Day celebrations extend to January 26^th, where participants will attend the parade and explore Delhi’s cultural heritage, marking a commemoration of their journey and a recognition of their central role in nation-building.

Attended by key ministers, state officials, and stakeholders from various sectors, this event is not just a symbol of commitment to the Swachh Bharat Mission but a testament to the transformative power of women in leading societal change towards a Sampoorn Swachh Bharat.

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