Gujarat to Produce Antivenom Locally, Aims to Slash Snakebite Deaths

• Gujarat government initiates local antivenom production from state's poisonous snakes to combat snakebite fatalities.
• Snake Research Institute (SRI) in Dharampur, Valsad, achieved this feat, focusing on region-specific venom for effective treatment.
• Venom extraction and processing follow WHO guidelines, converting venom into powder for licensed antivenom manufacturers.
• SRI successfully e-auctioned lyophilized venom from four key poisonous species, fetching higher-than-expected prices.
• This initiative is expected to significantly reduce snakebite mortality rates across the state by ensuring effective antivenom availability.