About Us

Snakes: Evolution, Ecological Role, and Conservation Efforts

Snakes evolved from lizards during the late Jurassic period, approximately 138 million years ago—over 100 million years before human ancestors appeared on Earth. Today, around 3,900 snake species have been identified worldwide, with India home to approximately 350 species. Rajasthan alone hosts 38 species.

Snakes play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance as key components of food chains and food webs. They are also widely studied as models for ecological research. These reptiles have adapted to diverse habitats, including terrestrial, arboreal, and burrowing environments. They are found across India, from the Himalayas and Trans-Himalayas to the Western and Eastern Ghats, the Northeast, the Northwest, and various islands.

The Human-Snake Conflict and Rising Snakebite Cases

With increasing habitat encroachment and destruction due to human activities, many wild animals, including snakes, are forced into human settlements. This has led to a significant rise in human-snake conflicts. Snakebites are a major public health concern worldwide, and India records over 50,000 snakebite deaths annually (WHO estimate). Most snakebite cases occur in agricultural fields, forests, and homes near forested and rural areas.

Contrary to common belief, snakes do not attack humans unless provoked or stepped on unknowingly. However, due to fear, people often kill snakes on sight, leading to a decline in populations of four major venomous species in India:

1. Cobra (Naja naja)
2. Krait (Bungarus spp.)
3. Saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus)
4. Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii)

The Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) Crisis

Anti-Snake Venom (ASV), the only effective treatment for venomous snakebites, is produced using venom from these four major snake species. However, the decline in their populations has made venom extraction increasingly difficult, leading to ASV shortages. Many snakebite victims succumb to their injuries due to the non-availability of ASV in hospitals. In response to this crisis, the Supreme Court of India recently sought answers from the government regarding ASV availability.

Raising Awareness and Conservation Initiatives

To address the growing snakebite fatalities and declining snake populations, we have collaborated with snake experts and conservationists to launch two national awareness campaigns:

1. Mission Snakebite Death-Free India (launched on September 14, 2019)
2. Sarp Shiksha Abhiyan (launched on January 22, 2024)

These initiatives focus on snake education and awareness through:

• Conferences, seminars, and workshops
• Snake awareness YouTube videos
• Mass training programs for forest officers, defense personnel, jail staff, police, and medical professionals
• Educational campaigns in schools, colleges, and universities
• Distribution of multilingual posters, banners, T-shirts, and educational materials
• Storytelling campaigns to educate children about snake conservation

Impact and Global Recognition

The impact of these awareness programs has been significant, as hospital and police records indicate a decline in snakebite deaths in many high-risk areas. In some regions, hospitals report zero snakebite cases, highlighting the success of awareness initiatives.

To further amplify global awareness, our team established World Snake Awareness Day, celebrated annually on April 11 since 2020. This global event promotes education, conservation, and harmonious coexistence between humans and snakes.

Through continued awareness efforts, we aim to reduce snakebite fatalities, protect snake populations, and shift public perception from fear-driven killing to in-situ conservation. By fostering coexistence, we can ensure a balanced ecosystem where both humans and snakes thrive.