In a remarkable recognition of her conservation efforts, Purnima Devi Barman from Assam, India, has been named among TIME’s 2025 Women of the Year, placing her alongside global icons such as Nicole Kidman, and other high profile women.
BY PC Bureau
TIME Magazine’s 2025 Women of the Year list showcases a powerful blend of global leaders, where Purnima Devi Barman, a dedicated conservationist from Assam, India, shares the prestigious honor with renowned celebrities and influential figures like Nicole Kidman, A’ja Wilson, and Jordan Chiles. 1
TIME Magazine’s 2025 Women of the Year list spotlights 13 extraordinary women who are reshaping the world through their dedication and innovation. These leaders are recognized for their profound contributions to building a more just and balanced society, driven by their exemplary leadership, passionate advocacy, and tangible impact.
Among the honorees is Purnima Devi Barman, an Indian conservationist from Assam, celebrated for her groundbreaking work protecting the endangered Greater Adjutant Stork, locally known as the Hargila. Barman’s “Hargila Army,” a women-led initiative, has transformed conservation efforts, empowering local women and safeguarding Assam’s biodiversity.
I am overwhelmed with joy and emotions. TIME Women of the Year 2025 is a victory for every Indian woman and every girl who dares to dream. Thank you so much @TIME pic.twitter.com/DfwcAG02Z4
— Purnima Devi Barman (@StorkSister) February 20, 2025
“This recognition is a triumph for Assam and its people,” Barman stated, expressing her joy and pride. “My journey, from humble rural beginnings, has been filled with obstacles, but to be recognized by TIME is truly remarkable. I hope this inspires young women to pursue conservation, challenge norms, and realize their limitless potential.”
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Purnima Devi Barman’s Achievements:
• Founder of the Hargila Army: Established an all-female grassroots conservation group dedicated to protecting the greater adjutant stork, locally known as “hargila.”
• Population Revival Efforts: Through community engagement and education, she has been instrumental in increasing the stork’s population in Assam from approximately 450 to over 1,800.
• Cultural Integration: Worked to change local perceptions of the stork from a bad omen to a symbol of pride, incorporating the bird into cultural traditions and festivals.
• International Recognition: Recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Nari Shakti Puraskar in 2017, the Whitley Award (also known as the “Green Oscar”) in 2017, and the UNEP Champions of the Earth award in 2022.
Complete List of TIME’s 2025 Women of the Year:
1. Nicole Kidman: Acclaimed actor and producer, recognized for her commitment to working with female directors and promoting gender equity in the film industry.
2. A’ja Wilson: WNBA MVP and advocate for equality in sports, celebrated for her outstanding achievements and leadership on and off the basketball court.
3. Jordan Chiles: Olympic gymnast and mental health advocate, honored for her resilience and efforts to destigmatize mental health discussions in athletics.
4. Laufey: Grammy-winning artist, recognized for bringing jazz traditions to a new generation and her innovative contributions to music.
5. Anna Sawai: Rising film star, acknowledged for her dynamic performances and representation of diverse voices in cinema.
6. Amanda Zurawski: Reproductive rights activist, commended for her courageous advocacy following personal health challenges, highlighting the importance of women’s healthcare rights.
7. Claire Babineaux-Fontenot: CEO of Feeding America, lauded for her leadership in addressing food insecurity and her impact on hunger relief efforts nationwide.
8. Fatou Baldeh: Women’s rights activist, celebrated for her relentless fight against gender-based violence and her initiatives to support survivors.
9. Raquel Willis: LGBTQ+ advocate and writer, honored for her work in advancing transgender rights and her influential voice in promoting inclusivity.
10. Olivia Munn: Breast cancer awareness advocate, recognized for her efforts in raising awareness and supporting research for breast cancer prevention and treatment.
11. Laura Modi: CEO of Bobbie, acknowledged for her innovative approach to infant nutrition and commitment to providing quality options for parents.
12. Gisèle Pelicot: Sexual violence survivor advocate from France, who became a global icon in the campaign against sexual violence after enduring personal trauma.
13. Purnima Devi Barman: Indian biologist and wildlife conservationist, celebrated for her dedication to protecting the greater adjutant stork and empowering local communities in Assam.
TIME’s special issue features three distinct covers highlighting Kidman, Wilson, and Chiles.
TIME CEO Jessica Sibley and Editorial Director Lucy Feldman emphasized the honorees’ exceptional leadership and their proactive responses to critical issues like gender-based violence and climate change.
To celebrate, TIME will host a Leadership Forum and Gala in Los Angeles on February 25th, featuring discussions with influential figures and a performance by Laufey.
Launched in 2020, TIME’s Women of the Year initiative addresses the historical imbalance of its “Man of the Year” franchise, celebrating influential women across all fields.
Barman also expressed her gratitude on X, stating, “I am filled with immense joy and emotion. Being named TIME Women of the Year 2025 is a triumph for every Indian woman and every girl who dares to dream.”
This list reinforces the vital role of leadership, resilience, and activism in creating a more equitable and sustainable future.
