New Delhi, June 28: In the 135th episode of his radio program ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared the inspiring story of the rare ‘Hargila’ bird (Greater Adjutant Stork) and its conservation efforts with the nation.
He noted that there was a time when this bird was considered inauspicious in some parts of Assam, but efforts to change people’s perceptions 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 vital role in keeping nature clean. Despite this, misconceptions about the bird persisted for a long time, leading people to dislike its presence. Even the trees where Hargila built its nests were cut down.
During this period, scientist Purnima Devi Barman observed the situation and resolved to change people’s minds. She first engaged with women and explained, based on scientific facts, how important the Hargila is for the environment. Gradually, women joined this campaign, leading to a significant change. The bird that was once driven away from villages due to its inauspicious reputation has now become a symbol of pride and identity for many.
The Prime Minister described this effort as an excellent example of awareness and collective participation in society.
It is noteworthy that the Hargila is one of the world’s rarest and largest stork species. Its name is derived from two Sanskrit words, ‘Had’ (bone) and ‘Gila’ (to swallow), meaning ‘bone-swallowing bird.’ It is primarily found in Assam, India, and parts of Cambodia, with around 80 percent of its global population residing in Assam.
The Hargila is a carnivorous and scavenging bird that plays 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 ecosystems around wetlands and water bodies.
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