Training for forest school staff to handle snake-human encounters
The workshop aimed at enhancing the capabilities of Assam forest department's frontline personnel in managing rising human-snake encounters across the state.
Senior wildlife warden Jayashree Naiding inaugurated the session, addressing the surge in emergency snake-related calls — often triggered by public fear and misinformation. She stressed the role of forest personnel in accurately identifying species, especially distinguishing venomous from non-venomous snakes, and emphasised responsible, harm-free rescue practices.
Cautioning against sensationalism in rescues, she cited species like the Sand Boa, urging restraint when handling non-venomous snakes.
Renowned herpetologist Jayaditya Purukayastha discussed widespread snake-related myths, and said, "The mindset problem is one of the biggest challenges in snake conservation."
"Snakes are now among the most commonly rescued animals in some regions. Increased awareness has led to more reporting, but also demands better training and public education," he added. He noted the increasing King Cobra encounters in Assam, warning about the potentially fatal consequences of incorrect snake identification.
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Time of India
17-07-2025
- Time of India
World Snake Day 2025 workshop focuses on snake identification and rescue at Assam Forest School
GUWAHATI: The Assam Forest School Jalukbari, alongside the Wildlife Areas Development and Welfare Trust, conducted a day-long workshop focusing on Snake Identification and Rescue on Wednesday. The programme gathered Assam Forest Department's frontline personnel to enhance their knowledge and capabilities in managing increasing snake-human encounters throughout the state. Jayashree Naiding, Senior Wildlife Warden, Assam, opened the workshop. She addressed the increasing snake-related emergency calls, stemming from public fear and lack of knowledge. She stressed the frontline responsibility of forest personnel in correctly identifying snake species, distinguishing between venomous and non-venomous varieties, and responding effectively without causing harm. She also highlighted the challenges posed by exotic snakes being reported in the wild and advised on cautious, informed handling of such incidents. Referring to species like the Sand Boa, she urged participants not to sensationalise rescues of non-venomous snakes simply for publicity. Distinguished herpetologist Dr. Jayaditya Purukayastha discussed prevalent snake-related myths. "The mindset problem is one of the biggest challenges in snake conservation," he said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You To Read in 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo "Snakes are now among the most commonly rescued animals in some regions. Increased awareness has led to more reporting, but also demands better training and public education." He noted the increasing King Cobra encounters in Assam, warning about the potentially fatal consequences of incorrect snake identification. Assam hosts approximately 70 snake species, including 15-plus venomous varieties such as the Indian cobra, monocled cobra, banded krait, and green pit vipers. These creatures are vital to the region's ecosystem, controlling pest populations and maintaining natural balance. Snake venom, despite its dangers, offers significant medical benefits. It's essential for antivenom production and aids research into treatments for various conditions, including cardiovascular disorders, cancer, and strokes. The speakers said that unfortunately, widespread misconceptions about snakes, including beliefs about revenge-seeking behaviour and milk consumption, result in unnecessary killings and hinder conservation efforts. Technical sessions were led by Prasanna Kalita, President, Bonyabandhu, and his team, who conducted both theoretical and practical training. His sessions included identification of native snake species, first aid for snakebite victims, and ethical rescue demonstrations using props to simulate real-life situations. Dr. Vinay Gupta, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden, Assam, attended the closing ceremony. He stated, "With rising human-snake encounters, frontline staff must be equipped with the right skills and tools. These workshops are not just necessary—they are crucial." He distributed specialised snake rescue equipment to six forest divisions. The Forest School Director, Dimpi Bora, emphasised the significance of continuous training programmes in addressing evolving conservation challenges.
Time of India
16-07-2025
- Time of India
Training for forest school staff to handle snake-human encounters
Guwahati: Assam Forest School, Jalukbari, in collaboration with the Wildlife Areas Development and Welfare Trust, conducted a daylong workshop on 'Snake Identification and Rescue' on Wednesday. The workshop aimed at enhancing the capabilities of Assam forest department's frontline personnel in managing rising human-snake encounters across the state. Senior wildlife warden Jayashree Naiding inaugurated the session, addressing the surge in emergency snake-related calls — often triggered by public fear and misinformation. She stressed the role of forest personnel in accurately identifying species, especially distinguishing venomous from non-venomous snakes, and emphasised responsible, harm-free rescue practices. Cautioning against sensationalism in rescues, she cited species like the Sand Boa, urging restraint when handling non-venomous snakes. Renowned herpetologist Jayaditya Purukayastha discussed widespread snake-related myths, and said, "The mindset problem is one of the biggest challenges in snake conservation." "Snakes are now among the most commonly rescued animals in some regions. Increased awareness has led to more reporting, but also demands better training and public education," he added. He noted the increasing King Cobra encounters in Assam, warning about the potentially fatal consequences of incorrect snake identification.
Time of India
18-06-2025
- Time of India
Five-year-old king cobra ‘Nagarjun' dies at Van Vihar
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