Snake rescue in India has gained widespread attention due to viral social media videos. Many self-styled rescuers perform risky stunts to gain fame and followers. These acts often end in fatal bites. The phenomenon marks the dangers and challenges of handling venomous snakes in the country.
Recent Incidents and Growing Trend
Recently, several snake rescuers died after being bitten by venomous snakes while attempting rescues. Notable cases include victims from Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Rajasthan. These deaths are part of a larger, unrecorded number of casualties linked to reckless snake handling. The rise of social media has encouraged many to perform dangerous acts to gain instant fame and financial rewards.
Social Media Influence and Public Perception
Snake rescuers enjoy admiration due to widespread fear and fascination with snakes. This has created a niche for influencers who showcase daring rescues online. Some have millions of followers and earn income. However, this fame often comes at the cost of safety and ethical concerns. Experts warn against staged rescues and mistreatment of snakes, which violate wildlife protection laws.
Regulatory Framework and Enforcement Challenges
Few state of Indias have formal regulations for snake rescue. Maharashtra, Kerala, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Odisha have introduced Standard Operating Procedures or certification for rescuers. Kerala’s SARPA App is a notable success in tracking certified rescuers and curbing unethical practices. Despite these efforts, enforcement remains weak in most regions. Forest officials rely heavily on volunteers, many untrained, to manage frequent rescue calls.
Dangers of Handling Venomous Snakes
India’s Big Four venomous snakes—common krait, Indian cobra, saw-scaled viper, and Russell’s viper—pose serious risks. Each species has distinct behaviours and threat levels. Cobras can strike from a distance and display a hood warning. Vipers are aggressive and unpredictable. Russell’s viper is especially dangerous due to its size and speed. Even trained rescuers face high risk during captures.
Best Practices for Safe Snake Rescue
Proper tools include a snake hook and pipe-necked sack to guide snakes without direct contact. Rescuers should avoid teasing or provoking snakes, which is illegal under the Wildlife Protection Act. The goal is to move snakes safely to natural habitats without harm. Despite improved availability of anti-venoms, snakebite treatment remains challenging and often fatal.
Human Cost and Socioeconomic Factors
Most snake rescuers are young, with limited education and from modest backgrounds. Many are primary earners with families dependent on them. This demographic is vulnerable due to lack of awareness about risks. Experts advocate stricter penalties for publicising dangerous rescues to discourage reckless behaviour. Responsible rescue efforts are vital in a country with tens of thousands of snakebite deaths annually.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the impact of social media on wildlife conservation efforts in India, with special reference to snake rescue activities.
- Critically examine the challenges in enforcing wildlife protection laws in India, particularly in the context of snake rescue and handling.
- Explain the ecological significance of venomous snakes in India and discuss the implications of human-snake conflict on biodiversity conservation.
- With suitable examples, discuss the role of community participation and technology in improving wildlife rescue operations in India.
