The Demow Rural Hospital has achieved a significant public health milestone by recording zero snakebite-related deaths for the fifth consecutive year. “This achievement underscores that with protocol-based care, preventable deaths from snakebite can be eliminated even in resource-limited rural settings. The success is a collective outcome of dedicated healthcare workers, community cooperation, and sustained public health efforts,” said Dr Surajit Giri, known as Assam’s “Snake Doctor.” Traditionally, snakebite was considered a condition requiring referral to tertiary hospitals with intensive care facilities.
Hospitality training for PwDs to develop skills
Shishu Sarothi, a Guwahati-based NGO dedicated to the rehabilitation, education, and empowerment of children and young adults with developmental disabilities, has launched a certificate programme in hospitality training for persons with disabilities in collaboration with Gateway Institute of Hotel Management (GIHM). The training programme is certified by Assam Skill University. The 6-month course will include one month internship in the hospitality sector. Supported by LIC Housing Finance Ltd under the Sarthak Project, the programme is designed to equip PwDs with skills and confidence needed for employment in hospitality industry.
Kaziranga Park records rise in foreign tourists
The Kaziranga National Park has recorded a substantial increase in the footfall of foreign tourists. According to park authorities, 6,699 foreigners visited the World Heritage Site between October and December 27 compared to 2,947 in 2022-23, 4,094 in 2023-24, and 6,433 in 2024-25 during the same period. CM Himanta Biswa Sarma was ecstatic. He said the world is discovering Kaziranga like never before. “The surge in foreign tourists reflects rising global confidence in Assam’s conservation, culture and community-driven tourism, setting new benchmarks for wildlife destinations worldwide,” the Chief Minister said.
Prasanta Mazumdar
Our correspondent in Guwahati
prasantamazumdar@newindianexpress.com