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.

About Dr. Purnima Devi:

• 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).

About Time Magazine:

• It is an American media company.
• It was founded in the year 1923.
• It started as a weekly news magazine.
• It is now a global multi-media company.
• It gives the Person of the Year award.