Assam Forest Minister meets Conservationist Purnima Devi Barman, reaffirms commitment to Hargila conservation
Guwahati, June 29
Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah on Monday met internationally acclaimed wildlife conservationist Dr Purnima Devi Barman to discuss ongoing efforts towards the conservation of the Greater Adjutant Stork and explore measures to further strengthen wildlife conservation initiatives in the state.
The meeting has come a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his Mann Ki Baat programme, lauded Dr. Barman's pioneering work in conserving the endangered Hargila and acknowledged her remarkable efforts in transforming public perception by challenging long-held superstitions and negative beliefs associated with the bird, according to a release.
During the interaction, Dr Barman briefed the Assam Forest Minister on the current status of Hargila conservation, ongoing community-led initiatives and the challenges that continue to affect the species.
She also shared several suggestions aimed at further strengthening conservation efforts across Assam.
Expressing her gratitude, Dr Barman thanked the Prime Minister for recognising the conservation movement at the national level and appreciated the continued encouragement extended by the Assam Forest Minister towards wildlife conservation.
"I am deeply honoured that Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned our work during Mann Ki Baat. I would also like to thank Assam Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah, who has consistently followed and supported our conservation journey. I shared several suggestions regarding Hargila conservation, and the Minister has assured us that the department will examine them positively," she said.
It may be recalled that Minister Baruah had earlier congratulated Dr Barman after she received the prestigious National Geographic Wayfinder Award, describing the recognition as a matter of immense pride not only for Assam but for the entire country.
Speaking after the meeting, Minister Baruah said the recognition of Dr Barman's work by the Prime Minister was a proud moment for Assam and reflected the state's growing contribution to global conservation efforts.
"It is a matter of great pride that the extraordinary work of Dr Purnima Devi Barman has been recognised at the highest level by our Prime Minister. For years, the Hargila was associated with superstition and considered a bad omen by many. Through the tireless efforts of Dr Barman and countless community volunteers, these misconceptions are gradually disappearing, paving the way for greater public participation in conservation," the Minister said.
The release said that he further reaffirmed the Assam Government's commitment towards protecting the state's rich biodiversity and said the Forest Department would continue to work closely with conservationists, researchers and local communities to ensure the long-term survival of the Greater Adjutant Stork and other endangered species.
The meeting underscored the importance of community-driven conservation and the collaborative efforts being undertaken by the Assam Government to preserve the state's unique wildlife heritage.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is exactly the kind of conservation success story we need more of in India. Changing deep-rooted superstitions about the Hargila (Greater Adjutant Stork) through community engagement is no small feat. Kudos to Dr. Barman and the Assam Forest Department for their sustained efforts.
Very happy to see PM Modi recognizing grassroots conservation during Mann Ki Baat. But let's not just celebrate - we need more funding and stricter laws to protect Hargila habitats. Urbanization and wetlands destruction are still big threats. Hope the minister's assurance translates into concrete action. 🤞
As someone from Assam, I've seen how Hargila used to be feared and even killed by some villagers. Dr. Barman's work is nothing short of revolutionary. The way she turned women into conservation champions is brilliant. This is the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' spirit applied to wildlife - local solutions for global challenges.
Inspiring story! Dr. Barman's approach of involving local communities, especially women, is a model for conservation worldwide. The National Geographic Wayfinder Award is well-deserved. I'm curious to see what suggestions she shared with the minister - hope they include protecting the wetlands where these storks breed.
Very positive development! But let's be honest - one meeting doesn't change decades of neglect. Assam's forests and wildlife need consistent protection from encroachment, poaching, and industrial projects. The forest department should also involve more local youth in conservation jobs. Actions speak louder than press releases. 🌳
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