Assam Environment and Forest Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah met internationally acclaimed conservationist Purnima Devi Barman and praised her pioneering community-led conservation model, describing it as a global example of successful wildlife protection.
Sharing details of the meeting on X, the Minister said he was delighted to interact with Barman, the founder of the Hargila Army, whose efforts to conserve the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork have earned worldwide recognition. He noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had acknowledged her remarkable work during the latest edition of Mann Ki Baat.
Baruah said the Assam Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has created a conducive environment for conservationists by encouraging their expertise in strengthening the state's wildlife conservation initiatives.
The Minister said he was particularly inspired to learn that nearly 20,000 women are now part of the Hargila Army, making it one of the world's most successful community-driven conservation movements. He described the interaction as enriching and said discussions focused on protecting the Greater Adjutant Stork, locally known as the Hargila, as well as conserving Assam's rich biodiversity.
Responding to the Minister's post, Purnima Devi Barman expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet him and thanked the Assam Government for its encouragement and support.
"We are deeply honoured and grateful for your encouragement and support. This recognition belongs to our communities and our Hargila Army women, whose dedication has made this conservation movement possible," she wrote on X.
Barman added that the movement would continue working with unwavering commitment to protect the Hargila and preserve Assam's rich biodiversity through community participation and conservation efforts.
The Hargila Army, led by Purnima Devi Barman, has become an internationally recognised model of community-based conservation, empowering thousands of rural women while helping revive the population of the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork in Assam.
