Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted Hargila conservation movement of Assam as a remarkable example of how scientific awareness and community participation can overcome generations-old superstitions. During his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, PM Modi praised the women-led Hargila Army for transforming the greater adjutant stork from a misunderstood bird into a symbol of environmental conservation and village pride.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi praised Hargila Army of Assam for changing public perception about the endangered greater adjutant stork through awareness and community participation.
- The Hargila bird, once considered a bad omen in some areas of Assam, has become a symbol of conservation after sustained efforts by local women and conservationists.
- Purnima Devi Barman’s grassroots campaign empowered thousands of rural women to protect the bird and prove that scientific knowledge can replace deep-rooted misconceptions.
Agartala: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised Hargila Army Conservation Movement as an inspiring example of how scientific awareness, community participation and women-led efforts can transform long-standing social beliefs.
Addressing the nation through his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, PM Modi highlighted the journey of Assam’s endangered greater adjutant stork, locally known as ‘Hargila’, which changed from being viewed as a symbol of fear in some communities to becoming a symbol of environmental conservation and village pride.
The Prime Minister said the movement demonstrated how accurate information and scientific understanding can help society overcome deep-rooted misconceptions.
PM Modi Highlights Power of Science Against Superstition
PM Modi said superstitions have existed in human societies for generations and often create fear that prevents people from understanding reality.
He explained that when fear dominates people’s thinking, decisions are sometimes taken without proper knowledge, logic or awareness. However, he added that social transformation becomes possible when individuals and communities use science, experience and reasoning to challenge traditional misconceptions.
The Prime Minister said the story of the Hargila bird reflects this change, where awareness replaced fear and conservation replaced rejection.
Hargila Bird: From Misunderstood Species to Conservation Symbol
The greater adjutant stork is one of the rare bird species found in Assam and plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance.
PM Modi said the Hargila contributes to keeping the environment clean by acting as a natural scavenger. Although the bird plays a vital ecological role, people in some areas of Assam previously considered it inauspicious.
Due to these beliefs, many people avoided the bird and sometimes removed trees where Hargila nests were located.
The Prime Minister pointed out that a bird that helped maintain environmental cleanliness became a victim of misunderstanding and fear.
Purnima Devi Barman’s Effort Changed Assam’s Conservation Story
PM Modi credited conservation biologist Purnima Devi Barman for leading the campaign to protect the Hargila and change public perception.
He said Barman worked closely with local communities and explained the scientific importance of the bird. Instead of limiting conservation efforts to experts, she involved rural women and encouraged them to become active participants in protecting the species.
Gradually, awareness campaigns began changing the mindset of villagers. People who once viewed the Hargila negatively started understanding its role in nature and protecting its nesting habitats.
Women-Led Hargila Army Becomes Assam’s Conservation Force
The campaign eventually developed into the famous Hargila Army, a women-led conservation movement involving thousands of rural women across Assam.
PM Modi said these women faced social challenges while spreading awareness and convincing communities to protect the endangered bird. Through continuous efforts, they succeeded in creating a positive identity around the Hargila.
A bird that was once considered unwanted gradually became a symbol of pride for villages associated with the conservation initiative.
The Prime Minister said the dedication of these women proves that correct information can change even deeply rooted beliefs.
Community Participation Creates Environmental Change
The success of the Hargila Army reflects the importance of involving local communities in environmental protection.
PM Modi praised the movement. He stated that conservation means more than protecting wildlife. It requires changing human attitudes through awareness and compassion.
The Hargila’s image has completely transformed. People once feared the bird, but they now celebrate it as a symbol of conservation. This shift shows how local, grassroots initiatives can drive lasting environmental and social change.
He added that the Assam movement sends a powerful message. Scientific awareness and collective action can help societies move past superstition. Ultimately, these efforts build a much stronger connection with nature.
(With PIB Inputs)
