On May 9, President Droupadi Murmu honored Parbati Barua from Assam with the Padma Shri award for her outstanding commitment to elephant conservation and wildlife preservation.
Parbati Barua, who comes from the esteemed lineage of Gauripur, Assam, embodies resilience, passion, and a relentless dedication to her cause. She made history as India’s first female elephant mahout and a prominent advocate for wildlife. Her journey began in the lush forests of Kochugaon, Assam, where, at just 14 years old, she embarked on her extraordinary mission by taming her first elephant, defying societal norms and breaking gender barriers.
Over the years, Barua’s unwavering dedication to wildlife conservation has made a significant impact in elephant habitats across Assam, Kerala, West Bengal, Uttaranchal, and Uttar Pradesh. Utilizing traditional wisdom, such as the Mela Shikar method, she has successfully rehabilitated more than five hundred elephants, providing them with a life of dignity and safety.
In addition to her accomplishments in elephant taming, Barua has played a crucial role in addressing human-elephant conflicts. She collaborates closely with forest authorities to implement sustainable solutions and provide comprehensive care for both elephants and their caretakers. Her expertise has gained international recognition, with her participation in forums like the International Workshop on the Domesticated Asian Elephant in Bangkok, Thailand.
Parbati Barua’s numerous awards, including the Asom Gaurav Award and the United Nations Environment Program’s “Global 500 – Roll of Honour,” highlight her tireless dedication and transformative impact on wildlife conservation. In 2003, she was appointed as the “Honorary Chief Elephant Warden of Asom” by the Government of Assam.
