To study and verify snake-bite cases in the state, the Government of Maharashtra has formed a four-member panel recently. The committee has been tasked to study measures, compensation and setting up of snake venom inspection centres in Maharashtra.

Dr V Clement Ben, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife West), Mumbai, has been appointed as Chairman of the Committee. Nishigandha Naik, ICMR Emeritus Scientist, Khalsa College; and Kedar Bhide, Snake Expert are the members of the committee. Mallikarjun, CCF and Director, Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Boriwali has been appointed as Member Secretary of the panel.

Incidents of snake-bite cases and deaths due to it will be verified by the panel. The committee will review the availability and requirement of Anti Snake Venom Serum (ASVS) in the state. There is a need to establish a snake venom inspection centres and snake venom repository in the state. The committee will also study the requirement and other aspects of such centres.