Purnima Barman named 'Woman of the Year'

Why in news?

Recently, wildlife biologist Dr Purnima Devi Burman of Assam has been included in the list of Time Magazine "Woman of the Year" 2025.
She is one of the 13 women in the world to be included in the magazine's list.
Basis for inclusion in this list:
- Identified a problem related to women.
- Tried to find a solution to the problem.
- Contributed to creating a better and more equitable world.

Contribution of Dr. Purnima Devi:

Contributed to the conservation of the endangered Hargila bird and its wetland habitat.
Organized local people, especially women and children, to protect the Hargila bird.
The local population considered Hargila as an unwanted bird and destroyed their nests.
Established the Hargila Army, which includes women and children.
Due to his efforts the population of Hargila birds increased to about 1800.

She was born in the Kamrup region of Assam.
Studied at Guwahati University,
- Master's degree in Folklore with specialization in Nomenclature Biology.
Has also worked as a senior reputed biologist.
She is also the Director of YNN (Women in Nature Network) India and;
- Member of the IUCN Stork, Ibis and Spoonbill Specialist Group.
In the year 2017, Dr. Purnima Devi received the highest civilian award of Indian women 'Nari Shakti Puraskar' from former President Ram Nath.
She was awarded the Whitley Gold Award (2017, 2024).