Tripura witnessed its first-ever live snake rescue operation display at Dolubari Higher Secondary School in Dhalai District. Organized by the Tripura Adventure Sports Federation and District Forest Office, the workshop educated students on wildlife conservation, snakebite prevention, outdoor safety, leadership skills, and responsible human-wildlife coexistence through practical demonstrations.
In a landmark initiative aimed at promoting wildlife conservation, environmental awareness, and outdoor safety among students, the Tripura Adventure Sports Federation (TASF), in collaboration with the District Forest Office, Dhalai District, organized what was described as Tripura’s first-ever live snake rescue operation display in an educational institution. The unique programme was conducted at Dolubari Higher Secondary School on Monday and attracted more than 100 students, teachers, school staff, and Forest Department personnel.
The event, titled Snake Awareness & Adventure Safety Workshop, combined practical wildlife conservation education with lessons on snakebite prevention, adventure safety, leadership development, and environmental responsibility. Organizers said the initiative represented a pioneering effort to bridge the gap between conservation science and classroom learning through direct exposure to real-life wildlife rescue operations.
The workshop was conducted by Bapi Debnath, General Secretary of the Tripura Adventure Sports Federation, renowned high-endurance cyclist, and world record holder. The live rescue demonstration was led by Debajit Sutradhar, Snake Rescue Specialist and Assistant Secretary of TASF. The programme was attended by nearly 20 Forest Department officials, including senior 2-Star and 3-Star Forest Officers, who supervised and supported the educational activities.
A major highlight of the event was the live rescue operation display involving an Indo-Chinese Red Snake, which had been rescued from Kamalpur on the night of June 21. Conducted under strict safety guidelines and under the supervision of Forest Department officials, the demonstration offered students a rare opportunity to witness professional wildlife rescue techniques firsthand.
During the live session, students learned about snake identification, behavioural observation, rescue procedures, and safe handling practices. Experts explained how trained rescuers manage wildlife encounters while ensuring the safety of both humans and animals. Organizers emphasized that the demonstration was designed to replace fear and misconceptions about snakes with scientific understanding and factual knowledge.
Addressing the gathering, resource persons highlighted the vital role snakes play in maintaining ecological balance. They explained that snakes help control rodent populations, thereby contributing significantly to healthy ecosystems and agricultural sustainability. Students were also introduced to various snake species commonly found in Tripura and educated about their ecological importance.
A significant portion of the workshop focused on snakebite prevention and emergency response awareness. Participants received detailed information regarding precautions that can reduce the risk of snake encounters and bites. Experts discussed scientifically approved first-aid measures and stressed the importance of seeking immediate medical treatment in the event of a snakebite.
The speakers strongly cautioned against relying on myths, misinformation, and traditional remedies that can delay effective treatment. They reiterated that timely medical intervention remains the most reliable and life-saving response following a venomous snakebite.
Beyond wildlife awareness, the programme also incorporated sessions on adventure safety and outdoor leadership. Drawing from experiences in trekking, endurance expeditions, and adventure sports, the resource persons discussed essential qualities such as discipline, teamwork, risk assessment, decision-making, and leadership.
Students were encouraged to embrace responsible outdoor practices and develop a deeper appreciation for nature. The speakers emphasized that adventure activities should always be approached with proper preparation, awareness, and respect for the environment. The session aimed to inspire young people to become responsible citizens who actively contribute to environmental protection and sustainable resource management.
The workshop further highlighted the growing importance of youth participation in conservation efforts. Organizers noted that young people can play a crucial role in protecting biodiversity and promoting environmental stewardship through informed action and community engagement.
To enhance learning outcomes, selected students participated in supervised practical exercises under the guidance of trained snake rescuers and Forest Department officials. The hands-on experience allowed participants to observe professional techniques closely and gain practical knowledge about wildlife conservation and safety protocols.
According to organizers, the interactive activities helped improve confidence, awareness, and understanding among students while fostering a more responsible attitude toward wildlife and environmental protection.
Forest Department officials present at the programme described the initiative as a significant step toward strengthening conservation education at the grassroots level. They noted that collaboration between educational institutions, government agencies, and adventure organizations can play a transformative role in building environmental awareness among young generations.
The workshop also demonstrated how experiential learning can effectively complement classroom education by providing students with real-world exposure to conservation challenges and solutions.
Following the conclusion of the programme, the rescued Indo-Chinese Red Snake was safely released into a designated forest habitat under the supervision of officials from the District Forest Office, Dhalai District. The release symbolized the workshop’s core message of conservation, responsible wildlife management, and peaceful human-wildlife coexistence.
Organizers stated that the programme successfully enhanced public awareness regarding snakes and their ecological importance, improved understanding of snakebite prevention and first aid, promoted outdoor safety and leadership values, and encouraged students to become active participants in environmental conservation efforts.
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The event was jointly organized by the Tripura Adventure Sports Federation and the District Forest Office, Dhalai District, with the support of the administration, teachers, and students of Dolubari Higher Secondary School, marking an important milestone in Tripura’s conservation education initiatives.
