A recent survey conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) has highlighted significant gaps in understanding the function of injectable weight loss drugs among urban Indians. The survey, which involved 1,087 respondents from Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai, revealed that while many individuals are aware of these medications, their knowledge of how they work is limited.

The study focused on GLP-1 receptor drugs, which have gained popularity as a quick solution for weight loss. Despite their rising profile, only 18% of participants correctly identified that these drugs primarily reduce appetite. In contrast, 26% mistakenly believed they burn fat directly, and 20% thought they increase metabolism. Additionally, 18% of respondents claimed they had never heard of these drugs, while another 18% admitted they did not know how they function.

Zeeshan Ali, a research program specialist at PCRM, emphasized the lack of access to weight loss resources in urban areas. The survey indicated that only 43% of respondents in Chennai felt they had effective options available to them. Despite the challenges, 93% of participants reported attempting to lose weight at least once in their lives, but only 19% successfully maintained that weight loss over the long term, underscoring the need for sustainable solutions.

The survey also addressed concerns regarding the side effects of injectable weight loss drugs. Approximately 30% of respondents acknowledged being aware of specific negative side effects, while 45% had heard general negative information without specific details. A significant majority, 81%, felt that media discussions surrounding weight loss medications tend to exaggerate their effectiveness.

Ali noted a growing interest in plant-based diets as an alternative to weight loss medications. In Chennai, 87% of participants expressed a preference for trying a plant-based diet over injectable drugs, despite a majority identifying as meat-eaters. If research demonstrated substantial weight loss results from a plant-based approach, 83% indicated they would seriously consider it.

Cost and sustainability issues are also critical factors influencing individuals’ decisions. At a price point of ₹15,000 per month, these medications are financially prohibitive for many. Research indicates that weight loss effects tend to plateau around 60 weeks, and individuals often regain weight after discontinuing the drugs.

Ali further explained the reasons respondents might consider switching to a plant-based diet, highlighting factors such as the absence of side effects, scientific evidence supporting effectiveness, and long-term sustainability. Despite only 1% of Indians currently adhering to a plant-based lifestyle, there is a pressing need to raise awareness about its potential benefits for weight management and overall health.

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.