Concerns are rising in India regarding the potential for human-induced earthquakes, particularly as the country grapples with increasing demands for water and energy. A combination of excessive groundwater extraction and energy production methods appears to be contributing to seismic activity, which experts warn could pose significant risks to densely populated areas.

Understanding Human-Induced Seismicity

Earthquakes are typically natural occurrences, but human actions can also play a significant role. According to a study published in *Seismological Research Letters* in 2017, over 700 human-induced earthquakes have been documented globally in the last 150 years, with incidents becoming more frequent. Activities such as mining, groundwater extraction, and the construction of large dams can disrupt geological processes, leading to increased seismic activity.

In India, researchers are exploring the relationship between water levels, both above and below ground, and earthquake occurrence. A 2021 study in *Scientific Reports* identified a link between shallow earthquakes in the National Capital Region and excessive groundwater extraction for agriculture and consumption. “Between 2003 and 2012, when the water table significantly declined, there was a marked increase in seismic activity,” stated Bhaskar Kundu, an associate professor at NIT Rourkela and co-author of the study. The research indicated that seismic activity decreased after 2014 when the water table stabilized.

The Risks of Groundwater Extraction and Dams

When groundwater is removed, the pressure that maintains stability in the earth’s crust is lost, which can lead to surface jolts. C.P. Rajendran, a geoscientist and author of *The Rumbling Earth: The Story of Indian Earthquakes*, noted that while the earthquakes in the Delhi-NCR region are generally minor, they can reach magnitudes of up to 4.5. In a densely populated city like Delhi, which is situated on multiple fault lines and classified in the Zone 4 seismic risk category, even moderate quakes can have serious implications.

The risk of earthquakes linked to groundwater extraction is particularly pronounced across the Gangetic plains, where the water table has been rapidly declining. Dr. Rajendran highlighted the agricultural demands for water in the region, exacerbated by insufficient rainfall. He emphasized the need for scientific management of groundwater extraction and recharge, especially in areas experiencing rising seismic activity.

Historical events illustrate the potential for devastation from human-induced earthquakes. On December 11, 1967, a magnitude 6.3 earthquake in Koynanagar, Maharashtra, resulted in over 180 fatalities and extensive property damage, with subsequent studies attributing the disaster to water loading from the nearby Koyna hydroelectric dam.

Energy Production and Seismic Activity

India’s escalating energy demands further complicate the situation. Dr. Gahalaut, Chief Scientist at the National Geophysical Research Institute, remarked on the significant risks associated with energy extraction methods, including hydraulic fracturing, which involves injecting fluids into the ground to release oil and gas. Currently, 56 fracking sites operate across six states in India.

In Palghar district, Maharashtra, ongoing seismic events since 2018 have raised concerns among experts, who attribute the phenomena to isolated plate deformation. Initial assessments suggest that fluid migration due to rainfall may be a contributing factor. Dr. Kundu advocates for improved monitoring capabilities through robust seismic networks to accurately track and assess such activity across India.

Climate Change and Its Implications

Experts warn that climate change could indirectly influence earthquake frequency. The melting of glaciers due to global warming and alterations in rainfall patterns can affect surface water loading, potentially triggering seismic events. For instance, significant rainfall can shift the stress between tectonic plates, leading to earthquakes, as seen in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats, which has recorded tremors linked to heavy rainfall.

Dr. Rajendran pointed out that changing rainfall patterns not only affect soil chemistry and agricultural practices but also compel farmers to rely more on groundwater for irrigation, further increasing the risk of induced seismic activity. He noted that prolonged droughts can also activate dormant seismic faults, as demonstrated by a drought-induced earthquake in California in 2014.

While the precise relationship between human activities and seismic events remains complex, experts caution against oversimplifying the causes of earthquakes. Dr. Kundu remarked that current research cannot definitively quantify the extent to which human actions contribute to tectonic strain. Rather, these activities may accelerate or delay natural geological processes.

As India continues to expand its infrastructure and energy capabilities, the management of water resources and the understanding of their impacts on seismic activity will be crucial in mitigating the associated risks.

A severely anaemic pregnant woman, identified as Malli, faced life-threatening conditions due to a dangerously low haemoglobin count of just 3 grams per decilitre (g/dL). Malli, a resident of the remote village of Kadamakuttai in Bettamugilalam Panchayat, was forcibly transported to a hospital after avoiding medical care for her tenth pregnancy. Despite the tragic loss of her child, doctors managed to save Malli’s life.

Malli’s situation came to the attention of Dr. C. Rajesh Kumar, Block Medical Officer of Denkanikottai, during a routine health camp in May 2023. During his visit, he learned from local women that Malli and her family consistently evaded the monthly health screenings. “They vanished every time we conducted the medical camp,” Dr. Rajesh Kumar recalled.

After witnessing the gravity of Malli’s condition, Dr. Rajesh Kumar and his team made a surprise visit to her home on July 18, 2023. The family responded with hostility and refused any medical assistance. Upon examination, Malli was found to have significant swelling and signs of pregnancy-induced hypertension, prompting Dr. Rajesh Kumar to alert local health authorities.

In a coordinated effort, C.Dinesh Kumar, the district collector, and Dr. Ramesh Kumar, Deputy Director of Health, were notified about the urgency of the situation. The tahsildar provided support to mobilize resources from local law enforcement to ensure Malli’s transfer to a medical facility. However, when the medical team returned the following day, the family had gone into hiding.

After an extensive search, Malli and her husband were located. It became evident that Malli feared for her children’s wellbeing if she were to seek hospital care. After significant persuasion, she was eventually transported to Dharmapuri Government Medical College Hospital in a jeep. There, the medical staff were instructed to monitor her closely, and an Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) worker was assigned to provide continuous support.

Tragically, during her hospital stay, Malli’s foetus experienced an intrauterine death. Dr. Rajesh Kumar noted that without the medical intervention, Malli would not have survived. Since her admission, she has undergone blood transfusions and is now receiving further medical support.

In the wake of this incident, the Health Department is considering the implementation of contraceptive measures for Malli to prevent future health crises. This case underscores the urgent need for improved access to healthcare in remote areas and highlights the challenges faced by families in similar situations. The local health authorities continue to work towards ensuring that such critical interventions are accessible to all, particularly in underserved communities.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned representatives from both Google and Meta to appear on July 28, 2025, as part of an ongoing investigation into illegal online betting advertisements. This follows the companies’ previous request for additional time to present required legal documents during an earlier meeting. The ED’s inquiry targets how these platforms have facilitated surrogate advertising and the promotion of illegal betting apps, which have reportedly led to significant financial losses for users across various age groups.

The investigation reveals alarming statistics about the online betting landscape in India. Approximately 22 crore individuals use betting applications, with 11 crore classified as regular users. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, illegal betting websites received around 1.6 billion visits. The online betting market in India has ballooned to an estimated $100 billion, growing at a staggering annual rate of 30 percent. Additionally, these platforms are evading tax payments estimated at around ₹27,000 crore each year.

Impact of Illegal Betting on Society

The ramifications of these illegal betting practices extend beyond financial losses. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes gambling addiction as a mental disorder, associated with severe psychological impacts such as depression and stress. Tragically, reports indicate that thousands of individuals, including students and homemakers, have taken their own lives due to the pressures stemming from online betting losses. A public interest litigation filed in Telangana highlights that at least 1,023 suicides have been connected to this crisis, with a significant number occurring in the state itself.

The ED’s investigation is not limited to tech giants. Prominent Telugu actors involved in promotional campaigns for these betting applications have also been summoned to provide testimony. This action is part of a broader effort to hold accountable those who contribute to the proliferation of irresponsible advertisements that target vulnerable populations, particularly youth.

Calls for Stricter Advertising Regulations

There is a growing consensus that both Google and Meta have a responsibility to scrutinize the entities they authorize for advertising. Given the serious consequences of online betting in India, calls for stricter regulations on advertising practices are intensifying. The current landscape raises significant ethical concerns, as algorithms used by these platforms often exploit the vulnerabilities of young users, leading to addictive behaviors that can dismantle lives.

As the ED continues its investigation, the future of advertising for betting applications hangs in the balance. The actions taken by regulatory authorities may set a precedent for how digital platforms manage content and advertisements, particularly in markets where the impact of gambling is profound and far-reaching.

Today, players of the popular word puzzle game Wordle can find the answer to challenge number 1493, released on July 21, 2025. For those facing difficulty, a series of helpful hints are provided to assist in uncovering the solution.

Hints for Wordle #1493

Players seeking clues can refer to several key hints that highlight essential features of the word.

The word contains just one vowel, which is the letter I. Additionally, it begins with the letter T and ends with the letter Y. Notably, there is a repeated letter in the word: Z. The word itself describes a state of confusion or nervous excitement, often referred to as being in a tizzy.

For those who wish to avoid spoilers, the answer can be revealed by scrolling further down.

Today’s Wordle Answer

The answer to Wordle #1493 is TIZZ, a term commonly used to describe a state of nervousness or confusion. This informal expression is typically employed when someone is agitated or overwhelmed by unexpected news or situations.

For interested players, there is also a recap of the previous day’s Wordle. For instance, Wordle #1492, released on July 20, 2025, had the answer BLANK. This word also contained one vowel, A, started with the letter B, and ended with K. The term describes something that is empty or devoid of content.

Recent Wordle Answers

For avid followers of the game, here is a summary of answers from May 31 to July 20, 2025:
– **#1492** – July 20: BLANK
– **#1491** – July 19: SWORD
– **#1490** – July 18: LORIS
– **#1489** – July 17: MODAL
– **#1488** – July 16: NERVY
– **#1487** – July 15: FOIST
– **#1486** – July 14: UNDID
– **#1485** – July 13: GNOME
– **#1484** – July 12: EXILE
– **#1483** – July 11: BRAND

This list can help players track their progress and strategize for future word challenges. As players continue to engage with Wordle, they can enhance their vocabulary and enjoy the fun of puzzle-solving.