Time Magazine’s Women of the Year 2025 (Source: Purnima Devi Barman/Instagram)
In February 2025, Purnima Devi Barman’s unwavering commitment to conservation and community engagement was globally recognized when she was named among Time Magazine’s Women of the Year. This accolade celebrates 12 extraordinary leaders worldwide who are working towards a more equitable and sustainable future. Barman stands as the sole Indian woman honored in this list, underscoring the global impact of her grassroots initiatives. Her inclusion not only highlights her significant contributions to wildlife conservation but also emphasizes the vital role of community-driven efforts in addressing environmental challenges. Ecoensa salutes her courage and dedication in saving an endangered species while transforming the lives of thousands of women in Assam.
A Lifelong Commitment to Saving the Hargila
Purnima Devi Barman, a distinguished wildlife biologist from Assam, India, has dedicated her life to the conservation of the greater adjutant stork (Leptoptilos dubius), locally known as the “hargila.” This species, once widespread across India and Southeast Asia, faced a dramatic decline, with fewer than 1,200 mature individuals remaining by the early 2000s. The primary threats to their survival included habitat destruction, pollution, and negative local perceptions.
Her journey began in 2007 during her Ph.D. research in Assam’s Kamrup district. She witnessed the felling of a tree that housed a hargila nest—an event that underscored the community’s disdain for the bird, often viewed as a bad omen or pest. Determined to change this narrative, Barman postponed her doctoral studies to focus on community-based conservation efforts.
The Hargila Army: A Women-Led Conservation Movement
To combat the declining population of hargilas, Barman founded the Hargila Army, an all-female grassroots movement that has grown to over 20,000 members. These women play a pivotal role in protecting nesting sites, rescuing fallen chicks, and rehabilitating injured storks. Their initiatives have not only bolstered the hargila population but also empowered the women economically and socially. By producing and selling textiles adorned with hargila motifs, they have seamlessly integrated conservation with sustainable livelihoods.
Thanks to Barman’s relentless efforts, the number of hargila nests in the Kamrup district has increased from 28 in 2007 to over 200 in recent years, making it the largest breeding colony of greater adjutant storks globally. Her innovative approach has blended traditional Assamese culture with conservation, transforming community attitudes towards the stork. The hargila is now celebrated in local festivals, songs, and rituals, symbolizing a successful fusion of cultural heritage and wildlife preservation.
Recognition and Global Impact
Barman’s groundbreaking work has garnered international recognition. In 2017, she received the Whitley Award, often referred to as the “Green Oscar,” for her conservation efforts. The Government of India honored her with the Nari Shakti Puraskar, the highest civilian award for women, acknowledging her contributions to both conservation and women’s empowerment. In 2022, the United Nations Environment Programme awarded her the Champions of the Earth award in the Entrepreneurial Vision category, highlighting her innovative and sustainable conservation strategies.
Beyond her work with the Hargila Army, Barman serves as the Director of Species Restoration and Community Climate Education at the Rewilding Academy. She is also associated with Aaranyak, a leading wildlife NGO based in Guwahati, Assam, and leads the Women in Nature Network (WiNN) India chapter. Her leadership extends to hosting international conferences, such as the Women in Nature Network conference in 2019, which brought together women conservationists from 13 countries.
A Legacy of Conservation and Empowerment
Purnima Devi Barman’s journey exemplifies how community engagement and cultural integration can lead to successful conservation outcomes. Her work not only safeguards a once-neglected species but also empowers communities, particularly women, fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Her recent recognition in TIME Magazine’s Women of the Year list reaffirms the importance of grassroots movements in global conservation efforts. Through her leadership, dedication, and innovative approaches, she continues to inspire a new generation of environmental warriors. Ecoensa proudly acknowledges her invaluable contributions, standing in solidarity with her mission to protect biodiversity and uplift communities through conservation.
Wikipedia – Purnima Devi Barman’s Wikipedia Page
Instagram – Purnima Devi Barman’s Official Instagram
Rewilding Academy – Purnima Devi Barman’s Profile
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) – Champions of the Earth 2022 – Purnima Devi Barman
EarthCare Awards – Dr. Purnima Devi Barman’s Award Recognition
Sanctuary Nature Foundation – Dr. Purnima Devi Barman’s Achievements
TIME Magazine (2025) – Recognition in Women of the Year List (Latest news source)
