Internationally acclaimed wildlife biologist and conservationist Dr. Purnima Devi Barman of Assam has been named one of the 15 global recipients of the prestigious 2026 Wayfinder Award presented by the National Geographic Society and Kia America. The award recognises outstanding changemakers from across six continents whose work is advancing conservation, science, education and storytelling while inspiring action to protect the planet.
Dr. Barman, founder of the globally celebrated Hargila Army movement, was honoured for her more than two decades of pioneering conservation work aimed at protecting the endangered greater adjutant stork (Leptoptilos dubius), locally known as the hargila. Through a unique community-driven approach, she has mobilised over 20,000 women across Assam to protect the species, transforming one of the world’s most successful grassroots conservation initiatives.
The award comes at a deeply emotional moment for Dr. Barman, who lost her father, Subedar Major Bhabani Kanta Sarma, on June 5. A decorated Indian Army veteran who served during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, Sarma was a source of inspiration and strength throughout her life.
Dedicating the honour to her late father, Dr. Barman said the recognition carries special significance because of the values he instilled in her.
“Just days before receiving this recognition, I lost my beloved father, Subedar Major Bhabani Kanta Sarma. He was my greatest source of strength, discipline and inspiration. My father dedicated his life to serving our country, and through my work for nature and communities, I have always tried to uphold the values he taught—service, compassion, perseverance and commitment. I hope I have made him proud. I dedicate this honour to his memory,” she said.
She added that the award belongs not only to her but also to the women and people of Assam who have supported the Hargila conservation movement over the years.
Dr. Barman’s conservation journey began more than two decades ago when she realised that the greater adjutant stork, often viewed as an ill omen by local communities, could only be saved by changing public perceptions and integrating the bird into local culture, tradition and pride. Her efforts transformed community attitudes towards the species and inspired thousands of women to become conservation ambassadors.
Under her leadership, the number of greater adjutant stork nests in Assam has increased from just 27 to more than 300, making the state home to the world’s largest breeding colony of the species. Conservation efforts have also contributed to a fourfold increase in the bird’s population in Assam, which now exceeds 1,800 individuals.
Beyond conservation, the Hargila Army has helped empower rural women through sustainable livelihood programmes, including weaving cooperatives that create textiles featuring hargila motifs. The initiative has become a model for linking biodiversity conservation with women’s empowerment and community development.
Dr. Barman’s latest honour adds to an impressive list of international recognitions. She received the United Nations Champions of the Earth Award in 2022, the prestigious Whitley Gold Award in 2024, and was named among Time magazine’s Women of the Year in 2025.
As part of the recognition, Dr. Barman will travel to Washington, D.C., where she will be formally honoured during the National Geographic Spotlight event from June 14 to 18. She is also expected to address a global audience at the event and will join the distinguished community of National Geographic Explorers, becoming part of an international network of scientists, conservationists and storytellers working to address some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.
Dr. Barman currently serves as Deputy Director of the Avifauna and Research Division at Aaranyak, a leading conservation organisation based in Assam. Her work continues to demonstrate how community-led conservation can protect endangered species while creating meaningful social and economic change.