Tezpur joined the global celebration of World Snake Day on Wednesday with a special event that showcased the incredible work of local snake conservationist Sourav Barkataki and his dedicated team. The third annual celebration took place at the Baliram Lahkar Hall of the Asomiya Club, with former Tezpur Municipality chairman Pushpa Deka presiding over the gathering.
The highlight of the event was Sourav Barkataki’s remarkable achievement spanning over 30 years of wildlife conservation work. His team has successfully rescued more than 4,000 venomous and rare snakes, providing treatment to over 500 of these reptiles before safely returning them to their natural habitat. What started as an individual effort has now grown into a movement involving over 300 young men and women actively participating in snake rescue operations and public awareness campaigns.
Dr. Ripun Chutia from Biswanath Civil Hospital shared encouraging news about snakebite treatment success in the region. Over the past two years, 462 people who suffered snake bites, including many from highly venomous kraits, received successful treatment at hospitals. The most significant achievement was zero fatalities, which Dr. Chutia attributed to increased public awareness about seeking proper medical care instead of relying on traditional healers.
During his presentation, Dr. Chutia shared a touching story of nurse Jyoti Chetri, who demonstrated extraordinary compassion by breastfeeding a malnourished baby whose mother was hospitalized after a krait bite. This act of humanity highlighted the broader impact of snakebite incidents on families and communities.
Sourav Barkataki used his keynote address to educate attendees about the crucial role snakes play in maintaining ecological balance. He stressed the importance of seeking immediate medical help after snakebites rather than turning to traditional healers, which can often delay proper treatment and worsen outcomes.
Social activist Krishna Kanta Bora, who attended as the guest of honor, informed the audience about the beneficial uses of snake venom in medicine and human welfare, helping to change negative perceptions about these often misunderstood creatures.
The event included a special ceremony to honor individuals who have contributed to snake conservation and public safety. Dr. Bhabani Bhuyan, retired District Veterinary Officer Dr. Teeroth Singh, Police Officer Rahul Gogoi, and nurse Jyoti Chetri received recognition from the Sourav Barkataki team.
Snake conservationists from across Assam were presented with “Team Sourav Barkataki” sporting kits, acknowledging their valuable contributions to wildlife protection efforts throughout the state.
The success of this year’s World Snake Day celebration reflects the growing awareness about snake conservation and proper snakebite treatment in the region. The event demonstrated how community education and medical advancement can work together to protect both human lives and wildlife.
Sourav Barkataki’s three-decade journey from individual conservationist to leader of a 300-member team shows how dedication and education can create lasting change in how communities view and interact with wildlife.
-
-
-
-
-
