Stories
18 Sarpagandha Plants Transformed School Campus, Now Green and Snake-Free After 15 Years.

N
News18•24-09-2026, 07:19
18 Sarpagandha Plants Transformed School Campus, Now Green and Snake-Free After 15 Years.
- •Ajay Agrawal, director of Chlorophyll Play School, planted 18 Sarpagandha plants 15 years ago to combat snake sightings.
- •Snakes appearing in the school premises during the rainy season was a common problem, causing fear among children and parents.
- •After temporary chemical solutions, Agrawal used Sarpagandha plants, which significantly reduced snake incidents.
- •The special scent from Sarpagandha plants repels snakes, which Agrawal calls the "Laxman Rekha" for his campus.
- •Agrawal is now distributing Sarpagandha plants in coconut shells to encourage others to adopt this natural snake repellent.
Key Questions Answered
The Sarpagandha plant emits a special, distinct scent that helps keep snakes away naturally. When planted around school boundary walls and gardens, this aroma creates an effective deterrent, and the incidents of snakes appearing have almost ceased.
Ajay Agrawal initially sprayed carbolic acid around the school premises to deter snakes, but its effect was only temporary and did not provide a permanent solution. This led him to discover and plant Sarpagandha instead.
Ajay Agrawal has started a small awareness campaign where he prepares Sarpagandha plants inside coconut shells and regularly distributes them to needy people. His goal is to promote natural protection methods against snakes in residential areas.



