Defenders Of The Planet
Eclectic Northeast|November 2018

We meet some green heroes in the Northeast who have dedicated their lives to conservation of nature and wildlife.

Manjum Mahanta and Meeta Borah
Defenders Of The Planet

Northeast has always been home to some of the rarest species of plants and wildlife, but the ever-growing human habitation across the region has started to endanger both over the years. With the emergence of issues like global warming, it has become pertinent to retain the green cover that the region is most known for. We look at some passionate conservationists who are leading the way with regards to conservation in the region.

Purnima Devi Barman

A wildlife biologist, Purnima Devi has been working for the last 10 years for conservation of the highly endangered greater adjutant stork. Popularly known as ‘Hargila Baidow’ in Assam, she has been awarded the President’s Award for her conservation work. She also received UNDP India Biodiversity Award 2016 from the United Nations, Royal Bank of Scotland RBS ‘Earth Hero Award’ under Save the Species category, Whitley Award also known as Green Oscar. Apart from this, she was also a nominee of 2018 Indianapolis Prize, out of 32 highly devoted conservationists.

As a young girl, Purnima once saw a tree owner ruthlessly cutting down a tree with a greater adjutant stork still nestling in its nest. The incident greatly saddened her and also ignited a spark within to save these gentle giants. After completing her masters, she decided to pursue a PhD in ‘breeding biology of the greater adjutant storks.’

She has been working to protect the breeding colony of the greater adjutant (Leptoptilosdubius) since 2008. ‘Due to habitat loss and poaching, it is today an endangered species. Globally only 1200 greater adjutants are left, and the population is declining.’ Her efforts have helped increase nests from 30 in 2008 to 171 in 2014. At present, the average nest number is 150, making this the largest breeding colony in the world.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM ECLECTIC NORTHEASTView all
Time For Home Improvement!
Eclectic Northeast

Time For Home Improvement!

Here are some home improvement projects that even absolute beginners will get right

time-read
2 mins  |
June 2021
Coping With Anxiety
Eclectic Northeast

Coping With Anxiety

Here are a few ways that you can deal with anxiety that you may be feeling because of the on-going pandemic

time-read
2 mins  |
June 2021
The Spread Continues
Eclectic Northeast

The Spread Continues

According to official reports, African Swine Fever has killed more than 1,700 pigs in Mizoram

time-read
2 mins  |
June 2021
Take the Unexplored Path
Eclectic Northeast

Take the Unexplored Path

If you are looking for an underrated destination to explore this year, plan a trip to the charming town of Likabali

time-read
4 mins  |
June 2021
The Lotus Blooms Again
Eclectic Northeast

The Lotus Blooms Again

The Congress-led grand alliance bites dust in Assam as BJP retains power again in 2021

time-read
10+ mins  |
June 2021
Painting Heritage
Eclectic Northeast

Painting Heritage

An up-and-coming artist from Nagaland wants to share his culture and heritage through works of art

time-read
3 mins  |
June 2021
MUSINGS OF A SOLDIER: TIT-BITS
Eclectic Northeast

MUSINGS OF A SOLDIER: TIT-BITS

People often ask me about my life out of uniform. Honestly, I have had no problems. Not so far. Instead, I find it quite refreshing. No routine, no parades, no briefing, no impending operations. Having donned the uniform since the age of thirteen until I hung up my boots last year, could I ever visualize life out of uniform? Not really. But, as I said, the transition has been quite smooth–no hang-overs, no regrets. People have been very positive in their interactions. Government departments have been responsive whenever I have approached for assistance.The genuine respect for the uniform is quite evident and it makes my heart swell with pride. Arunachal, to that extent, is the most nationalistic state in the country, I daresay. It has been kind of a revelation for me to experience the freedom of being a common man in an environment of positivity!

time-read
4 mins  |
June 2021
Look Good, Feel Good!
Eclectic Northeast

Look Good, Feel Good!

Here are four cruelty-free makeup brands that deserve a spot in your vanity bag

time-read
2 mins  |
June 2021
Face-to-Face With Conflict
Eclectic Northeast

Face-to-Face With Conflict

In ‘Bulletproof: A Journalist’s Notebook on Reporting Conflict’, award winning journalist and author Teresa Rehman shares her experience of reporting from a conflict-ridden region

time-read
4 mins  |
June 2021
Bringing the Family Together
Eclectic Northeast

Bringing the Family Together

Tabletop games will encourage your family to take some time away from the screen and reconnect with each other

time-read
3 mins  |
June 2021