Mannarkkad: Anusree, a 40-year-old volunteer in the 'SARPA' app, has a unique story of bravery and dedication. Growing up in Parambil Bazaar, Kozhikode, Anusree first rescued a baby cobra at just 10 years old, using a coconut ladle to gently push it into a glass bottle. Today, she has become a recognised snake rescue expert, having rescued 269 snakes in just nine months.

Anusree, who works as a civil defence member at the Vellimadukunnu fire station in Kozhikode, joined as a volunteer at the 'SARPA' app under the forest department in 2023. After completing training and obtaining certification, she began rescuing snakes in March. Since then, she has rescued 68 cobras, 108 pythons, and 94 non-venomous snakes including the Indian rat snake. She has also rescued a king cobra from Kakkayam in Thamarassery.

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Despite the challenges of working with dangerous snakes, Anusree always has the support of her family, especially her husband Babu, who often accompanies her during rescues. She believes that staying calm and careful, even when facing a big poisonous snake, is key to ensuring safety. "When rescuing a snake, you must be very careful. While it's natural to feel a little scared when about to handle a large, venomous snake, that fear helps you stay more cautious," she said.

Vidya Raju: A Navy veteran turns snake rescuer

Anusree isn’t the only woman who has made an impact in snake rescue work. Vidya Raju, a 64-year-old retired Navy officer from Panampallynagar, is another volunteer who has rescued 296 snakes.

Originally from Goa, Vidya started rescuing snakes at the age of 40 while living at the naval base there. After moving to Kerala in 2004, she began rescuing snakes after receiving training through the 'SARPA' app. She speaks of the importance of using scientific equipment for safer snake rescues.

Vidya is the first to respond to any snake sightings in and around Panampilly Nagar, Kochi. She and her husband, retired Navy Commodore NVS Raju, have been living in Panampilly Nagar since 2014.

SARPA App: Empowering snake rescuers

Launched by the Forest Department, the 'SARPA' app aims to reduce accidents caused by snake bites and assist in rescuing snakes from populated areas. So far, 4,700 people have completed training, and 2,400 individuals, including 187 women, have received official certification. Sarpa’s state nodal officer, Y Muhammad Anvar, emphasised the goal of encouraging more women to join the snake rescue effort.