The Water Warriors are individuals dedicated to solving India's water challenges. These change-makers unite communities, champion solutions that are inclusive and equitable, and go above and beyond in their efforts. They inspire others, persevere in the face of adversity, and make a lasting difference in the fight for water security. Their contributions are invaluable and deserve to be formally recognised.

For the first time, best performing water warriors who have taken exemplary initiatives to save water were invited to special guests to witness the Republic Day Parade 2025 at Kartavya Path in the national capital.

In all 272 individuals along with their spouses (100 by Department of Water Resources, RD & GR and 172 by Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation), who have demonstrated transformative actions on the ground in water conservation with the active involvement of local communities, from various States and Union Territories were invited to attend the Republic Day Parade.

Hon’ble Minister Shri Patil congratulated and motivated the water warriors to continue adopting innovative practices towards water conservation & management.  He urged them to continue to serve both the nation and their communities, creating a lasting impact. Through their unwavering dedication they could inspire others to step forward and make a difference in the years to come.

Hon’ble Union Minister also launched the following publications during the event, which capture the transformative impact of the Jal Jeevan Mission:

• Stories of Change – Highlighting success stories from Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
• Transformational Stories: Redefining Lives Through Water – Featuring inspiring narratives from rural communities.
• Peyjal: Jan Shakti ki Abhivyakti – Celebrating the role of VWSC members in the success of JJM.

While honouring these water warriors, recognition of the contributions of women in saving and conserving water resources is crucial to inspiring communities, as women are key stakeholders who utilise water throughout the day for various activities. One such remarkable Water Warrior is Ms. Lalawmpuii from Sairep village in Lunglei District, Mizoram. As the village council president, Ms. Lalawmpuii has demonstrated outstanding leadership in promoting rainwater harvesting within her community. Through awareness campaigns, she has encouraged the villagers to take part in water conservation efforts and has inspired them to build rainwater harvesting systems that are now benefiting the entire village. Her work has not only improved water availability but also contributed to building resilience against climate change-induced water stress in the region.

Similarly, Ms. Jyothi from Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Ms. Smriti Rekha from Assam, Ms. Nisha Sharma from Jammu & Kashmir, and Ms. Saira Bano from Ladakh have all made transformative contributions to water conservation in their respective communities. Whether through innovative water management practices, setting up community-based water systems, or leading education and awareness campaigns, these women have made a tangible impact on their villages, ensuring that future generations will have access to this precious resource.

The VWSC members were presented with mementos and certificates in recognition of their tireless efforts to improve rural water supply systems, promote community ownership, and advance the vision of Har Ghar Jal.

For the Republic Day Parade-2025, Ministry of Defence, Govt.of India invites such Individuals/SHGs/Volunteers etc. who are contributing towards growth of society in any field like employment generation, sustainability, environment protection, etc. Beneficiaries of various government schemes and volunteers who are helping at grass-root level are also considered as a token of appreciation for their efforts. Among various categories of special guests.

Besides being part of the Republic Day ceremony, Department of WR, RD & GR arranged for their visits to some prominent places in Delhi which included National War Memorial, Mahatma Gandhi’s Samadhi Sthal and Rashtriya Swachhta Kendra at Rajghat.

Hon’ble Minister of Jal Shakti Shri C.R. Paatil hosted a lunch for the water warriors at PSOI, New Delhi. Hon’ble Ministers of State Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary and Shri V. Somanna as well as officers of the Ministry viz  Smt. Debashree Mukherjee, Secretary,  DoWR, RD & GR and  Shri Ashok Kumar Meena,  Secretary, DDWS and Mission Director – NJJM, also graced the occasion with their presence and interacted individually with water warriors.

Interaction with the Union Minister of Jal Shakti and Minister of State

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Dhanya Sanal K

Director (M&C)

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