Time and again, we get to hear about cases of farmers being snake bitten while they are carrying out their occupational work. In order to relieve this fear, students of high school from Vizianagaram of Vishakapatnam have developed a 'lifesaver stick' to protect farmers from snakebites. Snakebites continue to be the major cause of death in the state.

The stick consists of a lithium-ion battery, eccentric motor, and switch in a circuit which kind of produces random vibrations up to five feet on the ground. According to the students, these striking vibrations signal danger to these snakes keeping them at bay from the farmers.

Since it has been scientifically proven that these reptiles can sense on-ground vibrations so the stick was developed accordingly.

Although many more suggestions have been received that should be incorporated into the project in the successive stages of development. Some suggested using an iron stick so that it's more in place while some suggested simply a wooden stick. The recommendations and assistance came from the other teachers of physical sciences dealings.

The student team, includes B Ravi Teja, T Yaswanth, N Daniel Raj, and D Sandeep (an old student). Overall, the cost that came in developing this device was Rs 150.

In the event of a snake bite, the stick has a pouch carrying two ayurvedic tablets prescribed by medical professionals. Till the time, the farmer is going to be escorted to the hospital, these medicines shall help in reducing the spread of venom in the body.

A light has been attached to the stick to make it functional in the dawn or the twilight hours. The batteries are rechargeable thus making them economically viable for the farmers. Several doctor's from the allopathic and ayurvedic branch were consulted to have the right type of medicine that would be like kept in the stick pouch.

The origination of the idea for this project is explained by MNP Bhagya Lakshmi, a biology teacher at the Kaspa High School and Group Teacher for the Project reveals that she and her students participated in this project where they initially conducted a study by visiting the agricultural fields and interacted with the farmers working there. The field worker focused on understanding what protective measures are taken by the farmers such as wearing gumboots or making noises in the case of a snakebite.

The responses in this research were sought through the questionnaire method. Things such as characteristics, aggressiveness, seasonal activeness, and habitat of snakes, and the underlying factors behind the bites leave apart the chance encounters.

This project was also exhibited even in the State-level Science Fair conducted by the State Government. The project received many accolades from the officials.

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Reference:

• m.timesofindia.com