In a heartening example of environmental action rooted in sisterhood and cross-cultural unity, Purnima Devi Barman, a celebrated conservationist from India and founder of the women-led Hargila Army, has now extended her award-winning model of wildlife protection to Cambodia. Barman, known for saving the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork (GAS) in Assam through a grassroots movement of women, recently led a transformative day-long training session at the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, part of Cambodia’s Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve, a Ramsar-listed wetland of international importance. Her mission: to inspire, train, and empower Cambodian women conservationists to lead from the front, using a powerful mix of science, storytelling, tradition, and community love.

The Greater Adjutant: A Bird That United Two Nations

Once hated and misunderstood, the Greater Adjutant, a large, rare stork known for its scavenging habits, has now become a symbol of pride and unity, thanks to Purnima's relentless efforts. In Assam, this bird was seen as ugly, unlucky, and unwelcome. But through love, education, and creative campaigns, the Hargila Army transformed its image into a cherished symbol of culture and biodiversity. Now, Cambodia, home to a precious population of Greater Adjutants too, is learning from Assam’s example—how a community of women can lead change from the ground up.

The Power of Women in Conservation

The training programme held in Prek Toal brought together 20 women conservationists and park rangers from across Cambodia. These women, often the first to notice changes in nature around them, were introduced to the Hargila Army’s unique approach, one that blends local tradition, emotional connection, and ecological science. One of the biggest highlights of the training was the announcement of a new international conservation network called “Sisters and Brothers of Storks.” This alliance will work hand in hand with the Hargila Army to protect stork species globally and promote inclusive, community-based conservation. This global network builds bridges not only between Assam and Cambodia, but also between people and wildlife, tradition and science, and women and leadership. 

Learning with Love: New Tools for Awareness

Another proud moment was the unveiling of educational posters designed by Barman, showcasing the behavioral ethogram (a catalogue of behaviors) of the Greater Adjutant. These posters, launched by local community members and park rangers, are meant to raise awareness and build emotional bonds between people and storks. In simple drawings and clear messages, these posters speak of coexistence, respect for life, and understanding over fear. Purnima Devi Barman’s journey is not just about birds; it’s about people. It’s about giving voice to rural women, honoring traditional knowledge, and proving that conservation doesn’t have to come from the top-down.

A Movement Rooted in Love, Soaring Across Borders

This partnership between Assam and Cambodia is more than a training program. It’s a symbol of what the world needs right now: collaboration, empathy, and a recognition that protecting nature means protecting ourselves. By connecting hearts and habitats, Purnima’s work reminds us that conservation is not just for scientists or governments. It belongs to everyone—especially those closest to the land, the rivers, the forests, and the birds. Purnima Devi Barman, the stork savior of India, has now become a global sister of storks, showing us that when we protect wildlife, we protect the future generations.