Context:
In a recent development, the police have arrested several individuals for allegedly supplying snake venom for a rave party. The arrests were made under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, and the Indian Penal Code (Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023). Such incidents highlight the illicit and dangerous practices that can endanger both wildlife and human lives. Authorities are conducting further investigations to uncover the extent of this illegal trade and to ensure that those responsible face appropriate legal consequences.
Relevance:
GS III: Environment and Ecology
Dimensions of the Article:
- Key Facts About Snake Venom and its Use:
Key Facts About Snake Venom and its Use:
- Snake Diversity in India: India is home to approximately 300 out of nearly 3400 snake species globally, spanning diverse habitats across the country.
- Snake Families: The snake species in India are categorized into four main families – Colubridae, Elapidae, Hydrophiidae, and Viperidae.
- Venomous Snakes in India: Of the 300 snake species in India, over 60 are venomous, more than 40 are mildly venomous, and approximately 180 are non-venomous.
- Composition of Snake Venom: Snake venom is a complex cocktail of enzymes, peptides, proteins, and other bioactive compounds. These include neurotoxins, cardiotoxins, cytotoxins, nerve growth factors, lectins, disintegrins, and enzymes with various properties.
- Medicinal Uses: Snake venom has been traditionally used in Ayurveda, homoeopathy, and folk medicine to treat various conditions like thrombosis, arthritis, and cancer. It is also a critical component in the production of antivenom.
- Recreational Use: Certain snake venoms, especially from species like cobras and Black mambas, are sought after for recreational purposes due to their psychoactive effects. This illicit trade is a lucrative industry, despite the associated health risks.
- Effects of Snake Venom: The neurotoxins present in snake venom bind to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the human brain, leading to euphoria and a rewarding experience. However, this can also result in muscular paralysis, analgesia (loss of pain sensation), and drowsiness.
- Regulation in India: While the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985 governs the trade and use of most psychoactive substances, snake venom falls under the Wildlife Protection Act in India. Additionally, crimes related to the illicit use and trade of snake venom can be prosecuted under Section 120A (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
-Source: Down To Earth
