In India, anti snake venom used for treating poisonous snake bites is mainly prepared by which of the following institutes?

Introduction / Context:
Anti snake venom is a life saving biological product used to treat bites from poisonous snakes. It is produced by immunizing animals, usually horses, with small doses of snake venom and then collecting and purifying the antibodies formed. This question checks your awareness of which institute in India is traditionally associated with the preparation of anti snake venom.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question refers specifically to anti snake venom preparation.
• Several well known institutes are listed as options.
• We assume basic knowledge of Indian scientific and medical institutions from general knowledge studies.

Concept / Approach:
Anti snake venom production is a specialised activity that requires facilities for venom collection, horse immunization, serum collection, and purification. In India, the Haffkine Institute, based in Mumbai, has historically been one of the main centres for producing biological products such as vaccines and anti sera, including anti snake venom. Pasteur Institutes and other organizations also work in related areas, but general knowledge questions often highlight Haffkine Institute as the classical answer for anti snake venom preparation.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Consider the reputation of each listed institute in the field of vaccine and antiserum production. Step 2: Recognise that Haffkine Institute has a long history as a leading centre for antivenom and vaccine production in India. Step 3: Recall that many exam preparation books mention Haffkine Institute specifically in connection with anti snake venom. Step 4: Select Haffkine Institute as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
General knowledge reference materials and competitive exam guides often associate Haffkine Institute with the production of antivenoms and vaccines. While other institutes like Pasteur Institute have important roles in vaccine development, the traditional exam focus for anti snake venom in the Indian context points to Haffkine Institute.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Option A (Pasteur Institute): Pasteur Institutes are internationally known for vaccine research, but in typical Indian general knowledge multiple choice questions, they are not singled out as the primary producer of anti snake venom.
• Option C (Birla Institute): Birla institutes are mainly known for engineering and technology education, not for large scale production of antivenom.
• Option D (Indian Institute of Science): This institute focuses on advanced scientific research and education rather than being a main producer of commercial antivenoms.

Common Pitfalls:
A common mistake is to choose the most globally famous name, such as Pasteur Institute or Indian Institute of Science, without considering the specific context of Indian general knowledge questions. It is important to connect anti snake venom with institutes that historically produced biological sera and vaccines in India, especially Haffkine Institute in Mumbai.

Final Answer:
Anti snake venom in India is mainly prepared by the Haffkine Institute.