Assam: Snake awareness campaign conducted in Samarang and Udalguri

A Correspondent

Dhekiajuli: In a significant stride toward wildlife education and conservation, a large-scale snake awareness campaign was held today in Samarang, an area along the Indo-Bhutan border, spearheaded by renowned herpetologist Professor Saurav Borkataki. The event, organized by the Balipara Foundation, drew a crowd of over a hundred locals and nature enthusiasts, highlighting the growing public interest in environmental issues.

Key representatives from the foundation Bankim Hazarika, Mrinal Saikia, Biman Mili, Kuldeep Das, and Robin Chetri graced the occasion. Bapdhan Das also participated as an assistant snake rescuer, contributing to the educational initiative.

During the campaign, Prof. Borkataki provided comprehensive insights into Assam’s diverse snake species, with a special focus on highly venomous native snakes such as the Banded Krait, King Cobra, Common Krait, Monocled Cobra, Black Cobra, Russell’s Viper, and Pit Viper. His talk also covered mildly venomous and non-venomous species, helping the audience distinguish between them with clarity.

A highlight of the session was a vibrant Question & Answer segment, during which Prof. Borkataki debunked longstanding myths surrounding snakes refuting common misconceptions such as the belief in the “two-headed” Guwala snake and the reliance on folk remedies like chants to cure snakebites. He emphasized that such superstitions can be dangerous and explained how modern medical science utilizes snake venom to develop life-saving drugs, including cancer treatments.

The herpetologist also took a firm stand against misinformation propagated by television dramas, which he said often misrepresent snakes and their behaviour, leading to fear and misunderstanding. His address included a detailed overview of anti-venom use and proper medical protocols for treating snakebites.

JFMC President Jang Ghale and Secretary Nirmal Barman extended their full support to the event, reinforcing the importance of collaborative efforts in environmental education.

The day’s initiative continued with another awareness session in Bhairabpur, Udalguri, at the Gethmane man-made forest. There, Prof. Borkataki delivered an impactful speech on biodiversity conservation and snake awareness, engaging local residents and eco-conscious citizens. The event was organized in collaboration with the volunteer organization Seuj Society, whose president, Sanjay Baruah, along with several other nature lovers, actively participated.

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