Honoring Grassroots Heroes of Water Governance
On January 27, 2025, the Ministry of Jal Shakti held a special event at the Palika Services Officer’s Institute (PSOI) Club in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. This program aimed to honor 172 dedicated members of Village Water and Sanitation Committees (VWSC) from 27 states and union territories. Accompanied by their spouses, these individuals were recognized for their significant contributions to the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). This mission is crucial for ensuring safe and clean drinking water for every rural household in India. The event was attended by prominent figures, including the Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Shri C.R. Patil, and Ministers of State, Shri V. Somanna and Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary.
Celebrating Contributions to Water Governance
The event showcased the importance of grassroots participation in water governance. The VWSC members were seated in designated state enclosures, creating a vibrant representation of India’s diverse regions. During the event, the Union Minister and other dignitaries interacted with the members, expressing gratitude for their hard work and dedication. They encouraged the VWSC members to continue their efforts in strengthening rural water governance. This recognition not only honored their past contributions but also inspired them to further enhance community engagement in water management.
The program also included the launch of three significant publications. These books highlighted the success stories of particularly vulnerable tribal groups and transformational narratives from rural communities. The titles included Stories of Change, Transformational Stories: Redefining Lives Through Water, and Peyjal: Jan Shakti ki Abhivyakti. These publications serve as a testament to the impact of the Jal Jeevan Mission and the vital role played by VWSC members in driving change at the grassroots level.
A Journey of Recognition and Inspiration
The VWSC members arrived in New Delhi between January 24 and 25, 2025, as part of a larger group of approximately 10,000 special guests invited to the 76th Republic Day celebrations. Their journey included visits to significant sites, such as the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, where they learned about India’s leadership journey and progress. On January 26, they witnessed the Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path, which celebrated India’s unity and cultural diversity under the theme “Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas.” This experience filled the attendees with pride and inspiration.
On January 27, the guests toured the Gandhi Smriti and the Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra (RSK). These visits provided insights into India’s cleanliness movement and the values of Mahatma Gandhi. The culmination of their visit included a reflective tour of the National War Memorial, where they paid tribute to the sacrifices of India’s brave soldiers. This journey not only educated the VWSC members but also reinforced their commitment to improving rural water governance.
Empowering Communities for Sustainable Change
The initiative by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS) reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering communities. The VWSC members were recognized as the backbone of the Jal Jeevan Mission. Their dedication to improving rural water supply systems and promoting community ownership is vital for achieving the vision of Har Ghar Jal (water in every home).
The selection of these special guests was based on criteria set by the DDWS. This included the number of certified villages and successful schemes handed over to communities under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Nodal officers from respective states and union territories accompanied the VWSC members throughout their visit, ensuring a smooth experience. Senior officials from the DDWS, including Shri Ashok Kumar Meena and Shri Kamal Kishore Soan, were also present, emphasizing the importance of this recognition.
The Republic Day celebrations, combined with the recognition of VWSC members, served as both a tribute and encouragement. It highlighted the critical role these individuals play in ensuring water security and sustainability in rural India. Their tireless efforts are essential for the success of the Jal Jeevan Mission and the overall well-being of rural communities.
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