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India Marks 150 Years of IMD with the Launch of ‘Mission Mausam’

8 minutes read

India Marks 150 Years of IMD with the Launch of ‘Mission Mausam’

8 minutes read

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, emphasizing its pivotal role in India’s scientific progress and disaster management. The event showcased the department’s rich history, achievements, and its vision for the future.

Founded on January 15, 1875, near Makar Sankranti, IMD represents a journey of science and technology in India. Over the years, it has served millions, becoming an emblem of India’s scientific innovation. Reflecting on this milestone, PM Modi highlighted the IMD’s impact on society, especially through its accurate weather forecasting, which now reaches over 90% of the population via tools like the Meghdoot app and WhatsApp updates.

The Prime Minister noted IMD’s advancements in space and digital technologies, including its meteorological observatories in Antarctica and supercomputers like Ark and Arunika. These innovations have enhanced the accuracy and reliability of weather data, benefitting agriculture, disaster management, and the blue economy.

At the heart of the celebrations was the launch of Mission Mausam, aimed at making India a “climate-smart” nation. The mission focuses on developing cutting-edge weather surveillance systems, high-resolution atmospheric observations, and next-generation radars and satellites. It also emphasizes improved air quality data and strategies for managing weather-related challenges. This initiative reflects India’s commitment to sustainability and future readiness.

The IMD Vision-2047 document, also unveiled at the event, outlines a roadmap for weather resilience and climate change adaptation as India approaches its 100th year of independence in 2047. This vision includes advancements in weather forecasting, climate change mitigation, and high-performance computing systems.

PM Modi highlighted the critical role of meteorology in disaster management. He recalled the devastating cyclones of the late 1990s and contrasted them with India’s recent ability to minimize loss of life during similar events. This progress is credited to IMD’s precise early warning systems and the integration of science into preparedness measures.

India’s Flash Flood Guidance system, which serves neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, further underscores the nation’s leadership in disaster management. The Prime Minister referred to India’s global role as a Vishwa Bandhu (world friend), assisting other nations during natural calamities.

PM Modi delved into India’s historical contributions to meteorology, citing references in ancient texts like the Vedas, Samhitas, and Surya Siddhanta. He also highlighted Tamil Sangam literature and works such as Krishi Parashar and Brihat Samhita, which studied weather patterns, cloud formation, and planetary positions. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of integrating this traditional knowledge with modern scientific practices to create a comprehensive understanding of meteorology.

He also referenced India’s tribal communities’ rich knowledge of nature and weather patterns, urging scientists to explore and integrate this wisdom with contemporary methodologies.

A National Meteorological Olympiad was organized to inspire young minds and foster an interest in meteorology. Thousands of students participated, reflecting growing enthusiasm for scientific fields. Modi encouraged scientists and scholars to focus on future breakthroughs, including advanced warning systems for natural disasters like earthquakes.

IMD’s achievements in improving the lives of farmers and fishermen were also highlighted. Accurate weather forecasts have significantly boosted agricultural productivity and enhanced the safety of marine activities, demonstrating meteorology’s tangible benefits for daily life.

The 150th foundation day of IMD was a celebration of scientific progress and a vision for a sustainable future. As India advances in meteorology and disaster management, the Prime Minister expressed confidence in the country’s role as a global leader in climate resilience. By blending traditional knowledge with modern science, India is poised to address the challenges of a changing climate, ensuring a secure and sustainable future for generations to come.

 

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