How Purnima Devi Barman and the 'Hargila Army' are Changing Perceptions in Assam

In a recent episode of 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the conservation efforts led by Purnima Devi Barman and the 'Hargila Army' in Assam. This initiative aims to change the negative perceptions surrounding the Greater Adjutant Stork, once considered a bad omen. Through community engagement and education, Barman and her team of rural women have transformed the stork into a symbol of pride for their villages. Discover how these women overcame societal challenges to protect this vital species and promote ecological awareness.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 29, 2026, 13:00 IST

Prime Minister Praises Conservation Efforts in Assam

In a recent broadcast of his monthly program 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the efforts of biologist Purnima Devi Barman and a collective of rural women dedicated to the conservation of Assam’s Greater Adjutant Stork, affectionately known as ‘Hargila’.

Modi highlighted the inspiring narrative of the ‘Hargila Army’, emphasizing how the right information can transform long-held beliefs.

Notably, Barman served as the Chief Guest at the 'Dharitri Youth Conclave' in November 2025. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared on social media, 'In today’s Mann Ki Baat, Narendra Modi ji spoke about a unique conservation initiative in Assam. The Greater Adjutant Stork, or ‘Hargila’, was once thought to bring misfortune, leading to the destruction of their habitats until @StorkSister initiated a community-driven mission.'

The Prime Minister noted that the ‘Hargila’, a rare species crucial for ecological balance, was historically viewed as unlucky in various regions of Assam.

He remarked, 'People often disliked having them nearby, and trees that housed their nests were frequently cut down.' Barman took it upon herself to alter these misconceptions, engaging with women and presenting scientific facts.

Gradually, these women rallied behind her cause to protect the ‘Hargila’, transforming the bird from a symbol of bad luck into a source of pride for their villages, as Modi pointed out.

'Thousands of rural women have come forward to protect the ‘Hargila’—they are now recognized as the ‘Hargila Army’. These women faced societal pushback,' the Prime Minister stated, praising their determination to overcome superstition.