Who among the following is from Assam, and has received the 'Green Oscar' Whitley Gold Award 2024?

The correct answer is Purnima Devi Barman . Key Points Purnima Devi Barman , an environmentalist from Assam , has been awarded the prestigious Whitley Gold Award (Green Oscar) 2024 for her exceptional conservation efforts. She is renowned for her work in preserving the greater adjutant stork , locally known as "Hargila," which is critically endangered according to the IUCN Red List . Purnima is the founder of the Hargila Army , a group of women dedicated to protecting the bird and its habitat by promoting awareness and sustainable practices in Assam. The Whitley Gold Award is an international recognition given by the Whitley Fund for Nature for outstanding contributions to wildlife conservation. Her conservation efforts have not only saved the species but also empowered local communities, especially women, through eco-friendly initiatives such as weaving and crafts. Additional Information Greater Adjutant Stork: The greater adjutant stork is a large bird that is native to South and Southeast Asia. It is classified as critically endangered due to habitat loss and hunting. Its population is primarily concentrated in Assam, India, and some parts of Cambodia. The bird plays an essential role in the ecosystem as a scavenger, helping to clean up organic waste and maintain environmental balance. Whitley Fund for Nature: The Whitley Fund for Nature is a UK-based charity that supports grassroots conservation leaders working in their home countries. It awards the Whitley Gold Award , commonly referred to as the "Green Oscar," to individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and success in biodiversity conservation. Winners receive financial support, international recognition, and networking opportunities to further their conservation efforts. Hargila Army: The Hargila Army is a community-driven conservation group founded by Purnima Devi Barman. It focuses on protecting nesting sites, raising awareness, and fostering sustainable livelihoods among women in Assam. Through their efforts, the population of greater adjutant storks in Assam has seen significant improvement. Empowering Women through Conservation: Purnima’s initiatives have integrated conservation with women empowerment by training local women in eco-friendly crafts such as weaving traditional textiles. These activities provide financial independence while promoting conservation awareness. The approach has made the Hargila Army a model for community-based conservation efforts globally. Important Points Sanjay Gubbi: Known for his work in conserving tiger habitats in Karnataka, but not associated with the conservation of the greater adjutant stork. Bibhab Kumar Talukdar: A conservationist from Assam working on rhino protection but not awarded the Whitley Gold Award 2024. Jadav Payeng: Famous as the "Forest Man of India" for his efforts in afforestation in Majuli, Assam. He has not received the Whitley Gold Award. Purnima Devi Barman: Recognized globally for her work in protecting the greater adjutant stork and awarded the Whitley Gold Award 2024 .