India's Snakebite Crisis: A Deadly Challenge
Tuesday, 2026/02/10149 words2 minutes578 reads
India is grappling with a severe snakebite crisis, accounting for approximately half of all snakebite-related deaths worldwide. Each year, around 50,000 Indians lose their lives to snakebites, with some estimates suggesting the toll could be even higher.
The crisis disproportionately affects rural communities, particularly farmers and those from poor tribal areas. Many victims face significant challenges in accessing timely medical care due to remote locations, poor infrastructure, and limited healthcare facilities.
In response, the Indian government launched the National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming in 2024. This initiative aims to halve snakebite deaths by 2030 through improved surveillance, better antivenom availability, enhanced medical training, and public awareness campaigns.
However, implementation remains inconsistent, and healthcare workers still face numerous obstacles in administering antivenom effectively. Experts stress the need for better training, improved access to quality antivenom, and increased political will to address this 'neglected' health crisis.
