Noted environmentalist of Assam Purnima Devi Barman was conferred the fourth Yamin Hazarika Women of Substance Award-2018 in Guwahati on Friday.
She has been working tirelessly on the conservation of the endangered greater adjutant stork (locally known as hargila) in Assam.
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The award celebrates the life of Late Yamin Hazarika, a 1977-batch DANIPS (NCT of Delhi, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli Police Service) officer.
A short film showcasing the life of Yamin Hazarika and the journey of four years of the Yamin Hazarika Women of Substance Award was screened.
Barman gave an account of her efforts towards involving communities – including Hargila Army, a group of local women – in the conservation of the endangered bird. “I am honoured to receive the Yamin Hazarika Award, and dedicate it to my Hargila Army. This will definitely inspire the young brigade to work for society,” she said.
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Writer Indrani Raimedhi’s book Crime, Justice and Women which was dedicated to Yamin Hazarika, was also released on the occasion.
Earlier, a panel discussion was organized on the theme, “Is social media dividing the society, instead of uniting it?” It was moderated by Reshma NC Shah, education consultant. The panellists included Durba Ghosh, senior journalist, PTI; Nahid Islam, psychiatrist, GNRC and Arpana Sharma, Circle Officer, Hajo circle.
Kuladhar Saikia, Director General of Police, Assam, was the Chief Guest on the occasion and Dr Aparna Sharma, documentary filmmaker and Professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, was the guest of honour. Shameem Hazarika, mother of Yamin Hazarika was also present on the occasion.