Who is Purnima Devi, named on Time’s Women of the Year 2025 list?
In a heartwarming and awe-inspiring move, Time Magazine has announced its list of Women of the Year 2025, featuring some of the most remarkable and influential women from around the world. One of the women who made it to the coveted list is Purnima Devi Barman, an Indian conservationist from Assam, who has been recognized for her groundbreaking efforts in wildlife conservation. As the founder of the ‘Hargilla Army,’ she has led a movement to protect the greater adjutant stork, transforming public perception and empowering 10,000 women in Assam through conservation-driven initiatives.
Purnima Devi Barman’s journey to becoming a leading conservationist began when she was just a child, growing up in a small village in Assam. Her fascination with nature and wildlife led her to spend hours observing the greater adjutant stork, a majestic bird species that is native to the region. As she grew older, her interest in conservation only deepened, and she began to realize the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures and their habitats.
In 2011, Purnima founded the ‘Hargilla Army,’ a movement dedicated to protecting the greater adjutant stork and its habitats. The name ‘Hargilla’ is derived from the Assamese word for the bird, and the ‘Army’ refers to the collective efforts of individuals who have joined forces to protect the species. Initially, the movement faced numerous challenges, including lack of resources, limited infrastructure, and limited public awareness about the importance of conservation.
Despite these obstacles, Purnima remained committed to her mission and worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the plight of the greater adjutant stork. She organized community-led conservation efforts, engaging local villagers, schools, and community groups in the conservation process. Her efforts were met with remarkable success, as the greater adjutant stork population began to rise, and the bird species became an iconic symbol of Assam’s rich biodiversity.
Purnima’s impact went beyond just conservation, as her initiatives empowered thousands of women in Assam to take charge of their lives and become agents of change. Through conservation-driven programs, she provided women with training and skills, enabling them to become entrepreneurs and leaders in their communities. Today, the ‘Hargilla Army’ has become a beacon of hope for women empowerment in Assam, with over 10,000 women actively involved in the movement.
Purnima’s recognition as one of Time’s Women of the Year 2025 is a testament to her unwavering dedication to conservation and her commitment to empowering women. Her story serves as an inspiration to women around the world, showcasing the potential for women to make a meaningful impact in their communities and the environment.
In an interview with Time Magazine, Purnima Devi Barman spoke about her journey and her vision for the future. “I believe that conservation is not just about protecting animals, but also about empowering people. When we work together to protect the environment, we are also building stronger, more resilient communities.” She added, “I hope that my story will inspire others to join the fight for conservation and to recognize the power of women in driving positive change.”
Purnima’s recognition by Time Magazine is a significant milestone in her journey, and it is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of conservation and women’s empowerment. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and social inequality, Purnima’s story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of collective action and the impact that one individual can have on the world.
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