Hyderabad: Seismologists at the Hyderabad-based National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) have created India’s first-ever strain map to evaluate earthquake vulnerability across the Himalayan and Indo-Gangetic regions.
NGRI Director Prakash Kumar, in a discussion with Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, on Sunday, emphasized that the strain map is a vital advancement in strengthening earthquake disaster preparedness.
Hyderabad: NGRI Develops India’s First Earthquake Strain Map to Boost Disaster Preparedness
Seismologists at the Hyderabad-based National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) have developed India’s first strain map to assess earthquake vulnerability across the Himalayan and Indo-Gangetic regions.
During an interaction with Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, on Sunday, NGRI Director Prakash Kumar emphasized that this strain map marks a significant step forward in strengthening the nation’s disaster preparedness strategies.
The strain map, built using geodetic data from instruments like GPS, measures surface movements and deformations caused by tectonic forces. These observations help track strain accumulation in the Earth’s crust, a key indicator of potential seismic activity.
The map is expected to play a crucial role in identifying future earthquake-prone zones in the Himalayan belt. Unlike traditional methods that rely solely on historical earthquake data, this modern tool provides real-time insights, enabling state governments to better prepare for and mitigate seismic risks.
“We are also undertaking deep seismic profiling under a national programme to decode the crustal structure of central India. This research holds significant implications not only for tectonic studies but also for mineral exploration. Additionally, our work in geothermal energy, particularly in Ladakh and Chhattisgarh, is opening new frontiers for clean, renewable energy,” added Dr. Kumar.
The occasion also saw presentations from directors of other Hyderabad-based CSIR laboratories — the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) and the Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT).
IICT Director Dr. D. Srinivasa Reddy highlighted the institute’s breakthroughs in agrochemicals and industrial catalysis. “Our researchers have developed safer and more effective agrochemicals, and novel catalysts for hydrogenation, oxidation, and polymerization processes. We’ve also developed compostable plastics in collaboration with GreenWorksBio, and Hydrazine Hydrate in partnership with Gujarat Alkalies and Chemicals Limited (GACL),” he said.
CCMB Director Dr. Vinay Nandicoori spoke about the institute’s impactful work in the field of genetic disorders. “One of our most notable achievements is the development of a highly sensitive, low-cost diagnostic kit for sickle cell anemia, as part of the National Sickle Cell Elimination Mission,” he said.
Dr. Jitendra Singh commended the significant contributions of the three CSIR labs, acknowledging their role in advancing scientific research, supporting national missions, and propelling India towards becoming a self-reliant, knowledge-driven economy.
