Youngest Snake Rescuer in India: Five-Year-Old Raj Saurabh Borkotoky
A Remarkable Young Hero
File image of five-year-old Raj Saurabh Borkotoky from Sonitpur (Photo: AT)
Sonitpur, April 22: In a notable event during the 60th Luit Par Rongali Bihu Sanmilan at Bam-Parbatia in Tezpur, five-year-old Raj Saurabh Borkotoky from Assam's Sonitpur district was honored as the youngest snake rescuer in India.
This recognition follows media coverage that showcased the child's remarkable bravery and his active participation in snake rescue and wildlife conservation efforts at such a tender age.
Currently enrolled in Senior KG, Raj has captured the attention of many in the region due to his exceptional confidence and enthusiasm for handling and rescuing snakes, earning accolades from environmentalists and various social organizations throughout the state.
Local residents have noted that Raj remains calm when encountering snakes; he approaches them with care, aiming to rescue and safely return them to their natural environments.
Additionally, he has been instrumental in educating the community about common fears and misconceptions regarding snakes.
Raj's father, Sourav Borkotoky, is a renowned snake expert, and Raj has been learning snake rescue techniques from him since a young age.
The father-son pair frequently collaborates on snake rescue missions across different areas in Sonitpur district, including Dhekiajuli, Tezpur, and Borsola.
The recognition ceremony was held during the main session of the Bihu Sanmilan, with Satyadev Sharma presiding over the event. Chief advisor Dwijendranath Sharma and guest speaker Shantanu Baruah were also in attendance.
Community leaders, such as Anurupa Bora, president of the Luit Par Mahila Samiti, and Rita Borkotoky from the Shilorkhuta Namghar Development Committee, commended Raj's commitment and emphasized the significance of wildlife conservation and shared responsibility towards nature.
On the same day, a nature-focused group from Tezpur, named “Prakriti,” visited Raj's home to present him with special recognition. The group's president, Tutumoni Kalita, and secretary, Mohsinur Rahman, engaged Raj in discussions about snake rescue and wildlife conservation.
Residents have expressed hopes for Raj's inclusion in the Limca Book of Records and the Guinness World Records for his remarkable achievements at such a young age.
His rising fame underscores the growing awareness of wildlife conservation and highlights the critical role of early education and training in nurturing environmental stewardship from childhood.