Earthquake of magnitude 3.5 hits Nepal
An earthquake of magnitude 3.5 hit Nepal on Sunday morning, as reported by the National Center of Seismology (NCS). As per the NCS, the earthquake occurred at 8:21 AM Indian Standard Time (IST). It struck at a depth of 10 kilometres on 27.70 N Latitude and 87.76 Longitude. The NCS wrote, "EQ of M: 3.5, On: 06/07/2025 08:21:30 IST, Lat: 27.70 N, Long: 87.76 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Nepal." EQ of M: 3.5, On: 06/07/2025 08:21:30 IST, Lat: 27.70 N, Long: 87.76 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Nepal.
For more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0 @DrJitendraSingh @OfficeOfDrJS @Ravi_MoES @Dr_Mishra1966 @ndmaindia pic.twitter.com/XGwqda2RMW
- National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) July 6, 2025 Earlier on June 29, an earthquake of magnitude 4.2 had struck Nepal, as reported by the NCS.
There were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage. Further details are awaited. Shallow earthquakes are more dangerous than deeper ones due to their greater energy release closer to the Earth's surface, causing stronger ground shaking and increased damage to structures and casualties, compared to deeper earthquakes, which lose energy as they travel to the surface.Nepal is highly earthquake-prone due to its location on a convergent boundary where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates collide. This collision generates immense pressure and stress, which is released as earthquakes. Nepal is also situated in a subduction zone where the Indian Plate is sliding beneath the Eurasian Plate, further increasing stress and strain.
Nepal lies in the Himalayan region, a zone of intense seismic activity caused by the ongoing collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This collision results in the Indian plate pushing beneath the Eurasian plate in a process called subduction, creating immense pressure and strain on the Earth's crust. The subduction zone further amplifies the stress, making Nepal highly vulnerable to earthquakes. The collision also contributes to the uplift of the Himalayan mountains, adding to the overall seismic activity in the region.
Nepal has a long history of earthquakes, including devastating events like the 2015 earthquake.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
2 hours ago
- Business Standard
Muscle loss to cancer: Shubhanshu Shukla's mission targets health in space
As part of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is leading a suite of life science experiments that could reshape healthcare, both in orbit and on Earth. The Ax-4 crew is conducting around 60 scientific and commercial studies in microgravity. India, through Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro), has contributed seven key experiments to this mission, spanning muscle loss, cancer biology, diabetes care, and brain activity. Battling muscle loss in space Among Shukla's flagship projects is the Myogenesis experiment, conducted in the ISS's Life Sciences Glovebox. In microgravity, bones weaken and muscle atrophy sets in rapidly, particularly in postural muscles. According to Nasa, astronauts may lose up to 1 per cent of bone density per month in space. The European Space Agency (ESA) reports that muscle loss of 10–20 per cent has been recorded on short missions—rising to 50 per cent during longer ones. Even astronauts like Sunita Williams, despite rigorous training, have faced this challenge. 'What happens on going to space is that because gravity is absent, the load goes away and hence muscle loss occurs. So, my experiment is looking at whether we can stop or delay this muscle loss by giving some supplement,' Shukla told Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a live interaction from orbit. 'It has a direct implication on Earth too—these supplements can be used on people who suffer muscle loss due to old age. So, I think it can definitely be used there,' he added. The project is led by the Institute of Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (InStem). 'Our research could one day help astronauts stay fit in space—and assist the elderly or immobile patients back on Earth,' said Dr Shruti Naik of InStem. Testing diabetes management in space Another cutting-edge experiment is the Suite Ride study, which monitors glucose metabolism and insulin effectiveness in space. One astronaut is wearing a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) throughout the mission, allowing scientists to compare blood sugar trends in real time. Blood samples collected aboard the ISS will be analysed to check the accuracy of CGM data. Two types of insulin pens—one stored cold, another at room temperature—are also being tested to determine efficacy in space environments. The findings could benefit both diabetic astronauts and patients on Earth, particularly those in remote areas or intensive care settings. Probing brain activity and cognitive response The PhotonGrav experiment explores brain activity using wearable EEG sensors. It examines cerebral blood flow and brain-computer interfacing in microgravity—research that could one day support thought-controlled spacecraft and enhance neuro-rehabilitation therapies for stroke patients. Studying cancer cell behaviour in orbit The Cancer in LEO (Low Earth Orbit) project, run by the Sanford Stem Cell Institute, involves studying triple-negative breast cancer organoids in space. The goal is to identify early warning signs and test new drug targets in microgravity. This work contributes to a broader initiative examining how microgravity affects stem cells, aging, and disease—laying the foundation for next-gen cancer treatments and diagnostic tools.
Hans India
7 hours ago
- Hans India
Building minds: The Rise of hands-on STEM learning
From textbooks to tech kits, India's classrooms are transforming into innovation labs—nurturing creativity, curiosity, and future-ready skills India's education landscape is evolving as hands-on STEM learning takes center stage. Moving beyond rote memorization, schools are now integrating robotics kits, IoT tools, and smart classrooms to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application. This shift empowers students to build, tinker, and solve problems—fostering creativity, critical thinking, and confidence from an early age. Supported by EdTech and aligned with NEP 2020, this experiential wave is making learning purposeful and inclusive, especially in underserved areas. As classrooms become launchpads for innovation, India is preparing a generation not just to learn—but to lead, invent, and shape the future Inrecent years, India's education system has been undergoing a quiet revolution—one that's shifting learning beyond textbooks and theory, into the realm of experience, creativity, and innovation. The heart of this change lies in the rise of hands-on learning, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. At the core of this transformation is the integration of robotics kits, IoT devices, and smart classroom tools that are turning schools into active innovation spaces. These tools are not just gadgets—they're the bridge between abstract concepts and real-world application. Moving beyond rote to real For decades, rote memorization has been the dominant mode of learning in Indian classrooms. While it has served its purpose in building foundational knowledge, it often leaves little room for exploration or critical thinking. In a world rapidly shaped by automation, AI, and tech-driven industries, this model is no longer sufficient. Hands-on learning, by contrast, allows students to explore concepts by building, experimenting, and solving problems. Whether it's programming a sensor-based robot, designing a circuit with a breadboard, or simulating smart city systems with IoT components, students learn by doing—and in the process, build skills that theory alone can't offer. Bridging the industry-academia gap One of the biggest challenges India faces is the gap between classroom learning and industry expectations. Employers today look for problem-solvers, collaborators, and creative thinkers—qualities that traditional pedagogy often doesn't nurture. Through hands-on STEM initiatives, students are exposed to real-world tools, project-based learning, and interdisciplinary thinking at an early age. This not only boosts technical confidence but also makes students future-ready in fields like robotics, AI, mechatronics, and data science. For example, when a student learns about light sensors in physics and then uses one in a DIY robot that can detect obstacles, they understand the why behind the what—a crucial step in deep learning. The role of edtech and smart infrastructure The rise of hands-on learning would not be possible without the support of education technology (EdTech) solutions and smart infrastructure. Across India, forward-thinking schools are partnering with STEM education companies that provide not only the kits and digital tools but also teacher training and structured content aligned with national curriculum standards. These partnerships ensure that technology is not an add-on, but integrated into the learning fabric—through dedicated innovation labs, after-school clubs, and curriculum-linked activities. Additionally, with the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) emphasizing foundational numeracy, computational thinking, and skill-based education, the timing couldn't be more appropriate for this experiential learning wave to gain national momentum. Impact at the ground level At the school level, the transformation is visible. Students as young as 7 or 8 are now building simple electronic circuits, programming motion sensors, and experimenting with paper circuit kits and 3D pens to bring their ideas to life. The impact goes beyond technical learning. These activities foster collaboration, leadership, design thinking, and resilience—core traits that are as important in the real world as academic excellence. We have seen firsthand how a student who once struggled to speak in class now confidently demonstrates his DIY robot at a school exhibition. Such moments are powerful proof of how project-based learning ignites confidence and a sense of ownership in students. Looking ahead: Scaling innovation As this movement grows, the focus must be on scalability, accessibility, and inclusivity. Rural and semi-urban schools, where resource gaps are wider, stand to benefit the most from structured hands-on STEM programs. It's also important to involve teachers, parents, and communities in the process. Empowering educators with the right training and tools ensures sustainability. Engaging parents helps shift the perception from 'play' to 'purposeful learning.' And community showcases can turn schools into local innovation hubs. Conclusion The rise of hands-on learning in India's STEM classrooms is not just an educational trend—it is a national need. As the world moves into an era defined by automation, digital transformation, and problem-solving, our students must be equipped not just with knowledge, but with the ability to apply it. By embracing experiential education through robotics, IoT kits, and smart classrooms, India is taking a powerful step forward—nurturing not just future engineers or scientists, but creative thinkers, entrepreneurs, and changemakers. Because the future of learning is not about memorizing formulas. It's about understanding how to use them to solve real problems—and it starts now, with hands-on, minds-on education.
Time of India
10 hours ago
- Time of India
In urban heat's shadow, Bihar bets on smarter & greener cities
1 2 Patna: As Indian cities battle the twin threats of fast-paced urbanisation and intensifying climate extremes, a new wave of hope comes in the form of the Smart Cities Mission – a govt initiative that seeks to reimagine the way cities function, breathe and survive. In Bihar, where urban centres like Patna are wilting under rising temperatures, shrinking green cover and crumbling infrastructure, the mission promises more than sleek roads and smart lights. It aims to build resilience, to make cities not just efficient, but liveable in an age of growing environmental uncertainty. Launched on June 25, 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Smart Cities Mission seeks to transform 100 Indian cities through sustainable, inclusive and technology-driven development. Among its core objectives is climate resilience, ensuring that cities can withstand and adapt to the growing threats of global warming, urban flooding and pollution. Bihar has four cities under the Smart Cities umbrella – Patna, Bhagalpur, Biharsharif and Muzaffarpur. Of these, Patna is leading the charge with an estimated project outlay of over Rs 2,776 crore. And according to officials, change is already taking root. Mohammed Shamshad, chief executive officer of Patna Smart City Limited (PSCL), said the area-based development (ABD) model adopted under the scheme has enabled targeted interventions. "Several initiatives like development of new parks, green corridors and the integration of green elements into urban infrastructure have been taken up at different places, especially below the flyovers and on riverfronts. Besides, PSCL is actively developing walking paths, jogging tracks, playgrounds and exercise stations," he said. With support from the Patna Municipal Corporation, PSCL is building green corridors along roads and waterways to link different parts of the city and enhance biodiversity. "These strategies would help mitigate the urban heat island effect and improve air quality," Shamshad added. The city's smart transformation also includes efforts to improve air quality through intelligent solid waste management, solar rooftops on government buildings, the introduction of e-buses, construction of e-toilets, and green belt development across the city. Shamshad said the smart city projects are on track to be completed by the end of the year. "By that time, hopefully, we would be able to create a greener, healthier, and more sustainable urban environment for the residents of Patna," he added. But infrastructure alone is not enough. Experts argue that resilience also lies in rethinking how cities are designed and inhabited. Sanjiv Kumar Sinha, a faculty member at NIT Patna, highlighted the importance of future-proof infrastructure. "Cities that focus on connected and coordinated infrastructure enjoy higher productivity, greater social inclusion, and more resilient economies. Other benefits include cleaner air, quieter environments, and safer streets, with lower greenhouse gas emissions," he said. Yet true transformation requires citizen participation. Uday Kant Mishra, vice-chairman of the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, stressed the need for a broader climate-conscious mindset. "Apart from the smart city project initiatives, the people of cities like Patna would have to come forward in creating a climate-responsive system by allowing enough space for ventilation and promoting urban forestry," he said. He advocated the adoption of the Akira Miyawaki technique – a Japanese method for growing dense, native forests quickly – as a model for reviving urban green cover. "Terrace gardens should be developed atop high-rise buildings which can provide insulation. Rainwater harvesting structures should also be developed at all available spaces to reduce water shortage in the city," he added. Ashmita Gupta, member secretary of the Asian Development Research Institute, believes planning is key. "A concrete plan is needed to overcome the challenges posed by climate change and urbanisation. Appropriate spots for implementing the modern schemes of urban forestry in the city should be identified through satellite imagery, and all attempts should be made to enhance the city's green cover," she said. She further urged the adoption of sustainable development practices, such as rainwater harvesting, green buildings, cultivation of medicinal plants, and increased use of renewable energy like solar power.
