Indian Daddy's Blog

The mother-calf bond in Asian elephants is an extraordinary relationship built on care, protection, and learning. From birth, a calf depends entirely on its mother for nourishment and safety, staying close to her at all times. The mother uses her trunk and body to guide and comfort her baby, teaching it crucial survival skills like foraging and social interaction. This relationship extends beyond just the mother—other females in the herd, known as allomothers, also play a role in raising the calf. For up to three years, the calf suckles, but even after weaning, it remains deeply connected to its mother, learning migration routes and herd dynamics. This nurturing relationship ensures the calf's survival and shapes the future of the herd.

    The first (partial) solar eclipse of 2025 will occur on March 29 at 2:21 pm (IST), peak at 4:17 pm, and end at 6:14 pm. The eclipse will be, unfortunately, not visible from India, though it will be visible from the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, parts of North America, Europe, and Africa. If you don’t know what a solar eclipse is, it is a phenomenon which occurs when the Moon comes between the Sun and the Earth. The Moon’s darker shadow (umbra) covers a small patch of the Earth; this patch experiences a total solar eclipse. The less-deep part of the shadow (penumbra) falls on a much larger region than the umbra. This area experiences a partial solar eclipse.  Post writer: Dhruba Neel Dutta

Short reels and videos have captivated audiences across all age groups. With their quick, engaging format, these videos have become integral to digital consumption. However, a recent study by researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, published in PLOS One , sheds light on the potential academic consequences of short video usage among elementary school students in China. The study analyzed data from 1,052 students across urban and suburban elementary schools. Researchers collected information through detailed questionnaires and academic records, assessing students' short video habits. Parents also provided insights into their own media consumption and perspectives on their children's screen time. Key Findings The study found a clear negative relationship between short video usage and academic performance. The more time students spent on short video platforms, the lower their academic outcomes across various subjects. This pattern appears to be linked to attention levels—...

  Welcome to the first post in my new blog series, where I dive into the fascinating world of birds, their behaviors, and their significance in our ecosystems. Today, I want to introduce you to a striking yet often overlooked resident of Assam’s wetlands— the Indian Pond Heron ( Ardeola grayii ). Spotting the Indian Pond Heron The Indian Pond Heron is a master of camouflage. When perched among reeds and vegetation, its brownish streaked plumage blends seamlessly with its surroundings, making it nearly invisible. However, the moment it takes flight, its hidden beauty is revealed—pristine white wings that contrast sharply against the backdrop of lush greenery and blue skies. Why This Bird Matters Ecosystem Role: As a wader, it helps maintain the balance of wetland ecosystems by feeding on fish, frogs, and insects. Adaptability: Unlike many other water birds, it thrives in both natural and man-made water bodies, including paddy fields and village ponds. Indicator Species: The pres...

Leila Seth (1930–2017) was a trailblazing figure in Indian legal history, breaking multiple barriers and setting important precedents for women in law and justice. Her life and work were marked by a deep commitment to fairness, human rights, and education. She is remembered for her remarkable legal career and efforts to make the law more accessible and meaningful for the common people, especially children. A Trailblazer in the Legal Field Leila Seth’s achievements were unparalleled. She made history as: The first woman to top the Bar examinations in London, demonstrating her academic brilliance and paving the way for Indian women in the legal profession. The first woman judge of the Delhi High Court, a role in which she made significant contributions to justice and legal reform. The first woman to become Chief Justice of a state in India, serving in Himachal Pradesh, where she continued her work in ensuring equitable access to justice. Her legal career spanned several decades, during w...