Assam Forest Minister meets Conservationist Purnima Devi Barman, reaffirms commitment to Hargila conservation

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)