Thousands of women across various regions of India are taking on pivotal roles in the management and maintenance of local water infrastructure, forming what is colloquially known as the "Blue Saree Brigade." This grassroots movement, often supported by government initiatives and local bodies, has emerged as a significant force in ensuring sustainable water access and quality for communities, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Their contributions encompass critical tasks from pipeline monitoring to water quality testing, enhancing community ownership of these vital resources.

The increased involvement of women in water governance marks a strategic shift in India’s efforts to achieve universal access to safe drinking water. Their participation is deemed crucial for the long-term success of national programs such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, which aims to provide functional household tap connections to every rural home by 2024. Officials from various state water boards and the Ministry of Jal Shakti have highlighted that women's engagement often leads to better maintenance of infrastructure, reduced water wastage, and more equitable distribution, attributing this to their direct experience with household water needs and their strong community ties.

Key aspects of their involvement include:

  • Operation and Maintenance (O&M): Women are being trained in fundamental O&M tasks for village-level water supply systems, including minor repairs of pipelines, taps, and pumps.
  • Water Quality Surveillance: Equipped with field testing kits, members of the Blue Saree Brigade routinely test water sources for contamination, reporting anomalies to local authorities for prompt action. This proactive monitoring helps prevent waterborne diseases.
  • Community Mobilisation: They serve as vital links between the community and water authorities, educating residents on water conservation, hygiene practices, and the proper use of new infrastructure. They also help in resolving local disputes related to water distribution.
  • Financial Management: In many villages, women's self-help groups are taking responsibility for collecting water tariffs, managing village water funds, and ensuring the financial sustainability of local water supply schemes.
  • Decision-Making: Their inclusion in Village Water and Sanitation Committees (VWSCs) or Paani Samitis ensures that women’s perspectives, often overlooked, are integrated into planning and policy decisions regarding local water resources.

This initiative has demonstrated measurable impacts, including a reported decrease in non-revenue water (water that is produced but lost before it reaches the customer), an improvement in the regularity and quantity of water supply, and enhanced awareness about water conservation. Data from districts where these brigades are active show improved reliability of water services and increased trust in the public water supply systems. The empowerment of these women, through training and direct responsibility, extends beyond water management, fostering broader socio-economic development within their communities.

Looking ahead, government agencies and partner organizations plan to expand the scope and reach of such initiatives. There is a continued focus on comprehensive training programs to equip more women with both technical and managerial skills, ensuring that the momentum built by the "Blue Saree Brigade" contributes significantly to India's long-term water security goals. The integration of digital tools for monitoring and reporting is also being explored to further streamline their operations and enhance efficiency.