New Delhi, June 28: In the 135th episode of his radio program ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared an inspiring story about the rare ‘Hargila’ bird (Greater Adjutant Stork) and its conservation efforts in Assam.
He noted that there was a time when this bird was considered inauspicious in certain areas of Assam. However, efforts to change public perception have now made it a symbol of identity for many villages.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the Hargila is an extremely rare bird that plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Despite its importance, misconceptions about the bird persisted for a long time. Many people were reluctant to see it in their vicinity, and even the trees where Hargilas built their nests were cut down.
During this period, scientist Purnima Devi Barman recognized the situation and committed to changing people’s attitudes. She began by engaging with women, educating them with scientific facts about the Hargila’s environmental significance. Gradually, more women joined the campaign, leading to a significant transformation. The bird, once driven away from villages due to superstition, has now become a source of pride and identity for many communities.
PM Modi praised this initiative as an excellent example of societal awareness and collective participation.
It is noteworthy that the Hargila is one of the world’s rarest and largest stork species. Its name derives from two Sanskrit words: ‘Had’ (bone) and ‘Gila’ (to swallow), meaning ‘bone-swallowing bird’. This species is primarily found in Assam, India, and parts of Cambodia, with approximately 80% of its global population residing in Assam alone.
The Hargila is a carnivorous scavenger, playing the role of a natural cleaner by consuming decaying meat, dead animals, and waste. Additionally, it contributes significantly to maintaining the cleanliness and balance of wetland ecosystems and surrounding water bodies.
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