New Delhi, Jan 25: As a tribute to India’s rivers, 163 environmental guardians dedicated to cleaning rivers and water bodies will attend the Republic Day Parade 2026 as Special Guests of the Jal Shakti Ministry.
The invitation acknowledges their contributions and allows rural citizens to participate in a significant national ceremony at Kartavya Path. The spectator enclosures at the parade are named after various major rivers, including Ganga and Yamuna, symbolizing community engagement in national development.
Among the Special Guests, comprising water warriors, 28 are from Uttarakhand, 10 from Jharkhand, 40 from Bihar, and 85 from Uttar Pradesh.
The group includes Ganga Praharis—trained local volunteers focused on biodiversity conservation and cleanliness in collaboration with initiatives like the National Mission for Clean Ganga.
Additionally invited are private citizens and NGOs engaged in protecting aquatic species. V. L. Kantha Rao, the Secretary of the Department of Water Resources, will join the celebrations, and the Special Guests will have opportunities to interact with Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil and other officials on January 27.
