They come from 186 urban slums and rural areas in India. Some wake at 4 a.m., travel long distances, packed lunches in hand. They are 25,000 women strong, and they join with elected officials, international organizations, and women's group leaders, with one purpose: to rally during World Water Day 2009.

In India, World Water Day is celebrated annually to highlight the importance of water, sanitation and hygiene practices among rural and urban communities. Gramalaya, a WaterPartners' partner organization in Tiruchirappalli, has planned this event every year for the past 11 years. All indications are that 2009 will be the largest congregation of women in the world who care for water and sanitation.

These women care so deeply because they witness preventable water-related diseases, such as diarrhea, keeping their children from school and from experiencing vibrant health. The unbelievable truth is that one child dies every 15 seconds from a water-related disease, and that 1.4 million children die each year from diarrhea alone.

These women care so profoundly because with the implementation of women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs), they are able to take out microcredit loans to pay for the toilet they've never been able to have in their home, the community water point that saves them from 2 hours of walking each day for their family’s water. It is estimated that 2,500 SHG members will come to this event representing their 429 villages.

As these committed women unite from all over India, they continue to lead by example in teaching their children and communities about hygiene practices, such as washing hands with soap, and how it reduces disease.

They come to make a difference, to represent dignity, health, and quality of life.

As part of this event, these women also carry out a campaign that begins with 100,000 families to not only create awareness, but to instill proper hand-washing, hygiene and toilet habits. Its expected reach: 500,000 people.

Gramalaya, in association with WaterPartners International, USA, WaterAid, UK, and Arghyam, Bangalore, organized World Water Day 2009, which is held at its National Institute of Water and Sanitation (NIWAS) Training Centre in Tamil Nadu.

This fast-growing World Water Day 2009 celebration reminds us of water’s profound impact in all of our lives and how it continues to connect us all.

More About WaterPartners

WaterPartners is a non-profit organization that has transformed hundreds of communities in Africa, South Asia and Central America by providing access to safe water and sanitation. Founded in 1990, WaterPartners works with local partners to deliver innovative solutions for long-term success. Its microfinance-based WaterCredit Initiative is pioneering sustainable giving in the sector.

For more information, visit www.water.org.