India, 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 conserv...