Guwahati, June 10: Celebrated conservationist and wildlife biologist Dr. Purnima Devi Barman from Assam has been selected for the prestigious 2026 Wayfinder Award, an international honour presented by the National Geographic Society in partnership with Kia.
Dr. Barman is among a select group of global changemakers recognised for their outstanding contributions toward addressing environmental and social challenges through innovative and community-driven initiatives.
Widely acclaimed for her efforts to protect the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork, popularly known as the Hargila in Assam, Dr. Barman has spent nearly two decades working to secure the future of the species. Through her conservation movement, she has transformed public attitudes toward a bird that was once neglected and often viewed as a nuisance.
Her most notable initiative, the Hargila Army, has brought together thousands of women from rural Assam in a collective effort to safeguard nesting sites, rescue injured birds, and raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation. The movement has not only contributed to the recovery of the species but has also created opportunities for community participation and women’s empowerment.
The Wayfinder Award celebrates individuals whose work is generating meaningful impact and inspiring positive change across the world. The recognition places Dr. Barman alongside a distinguished group of leaders, researchers, educators, and innovators from different countries who are working to create a more sustainable future.
Over the years, Dr. Barman’s conservation journey has earned widespread international recognition. Her work has been praised for successfully combining scientific research with grassroots engagement, making local communities active partners in protecting wildlife and natural habitats.
The latest honour is being viewed as a proud moment for Assam and India, highlighting how a locally driven conservation effort has gained global recognition. It also underscores the growing importance of community-led environmental initiatives in addressing the challenges facing endangered species worldwide.
As congratulations pour in from across the country, Dr. Purnima Devi Barman’s achievement serves as an inspiration for future generations, demonstrating how dedication, persistence, and community action can bring about lasting change for both people and nature.