Test: Major Earthquake Zones (India) - UPSC MCQ

The National Centre for Seismology (NCS) is the nodal agency of the Government of India for monitoring earthquake activity in the country.

India is divided into four seismic zones: V, IV, III, and II, based on the level of seismic activity in each zone.

Zone II is associated with the lowest level of seismicity among the four seismic zones in India.

Approximately 18% of India falls under Zone IV, which represents a severe intensity zone.

The Richter scale is used to measure the magnitude of an earthquake, representing the energy released during the event.

The modified Mercalli scale assesses the intensity of earthquakes, considering the visible damage caused by the event.

Parts of Jammu and Kashmir, including the Kashmir Valley, fall under Zone V, which is the very severe intensity zone.

The NDMA conducts regular awareness campaigns through various media platforms to sensitize individuals and communities about earthquake prevention and preparedness.

Zone III covers approximately 30% of India's landmass, making it the zone with the largest coverage.

The BMTPC promotes resource-efficient, climate-resilient, and disaster-resistant construction practices in India, including the use of innovative building materials and construction technologies.