150 Years of IMD: Unveiling Mission Mausam for a Resilient Future
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Mission Mausam on January 14, 2025, in New Delhi to commemorate the 150th foundation day of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This ambitious initiative aims to strengthen India’s capabilities in weather science and climate resilience, marking a significant milestone in the country’s scientific journey.
History and Importance of the IMD
Establishment of the IMD
The India Meteorological Department was established on January 15, 1875, in Kolkata during British rule. It centralized the management of meteorological observatories across India. Over the years, the IMD has grown into a pivotal organization responsible for meteorology and weather services in India.
Functions of the IMD
The IMD plays a crucial role in various sectors, providing:
- Weather Forecasts: Vital for agriculture, shipping, aviation, and offshore operations.
- Early Warnings: Alerts about cyclones, heatwaves, heavy rainfall, and other severe weather phenomena.
- Data for Development: Meteorological statistics essential for agriculture, water resource management, and industrial growth.
- Research: Promoting advancements in meteorology and related sciences.
Mission Mausam: An Overview
Objective and Budget
Mission Mausam aims to position India as a leader in climate-resilient development through advanced weather forecasting and climate services. Approved by the Union Cabinet on September 11, 2024, the project has an initial budget of ₹2,000 crore for two years.
Key Components
- Enhanced Weather Surveillance: Investments in next-generation radars and satellites.
- Advanced Forecasting: Development of high-resolution atmospheric models.
- Research Initiatives: Establishing state-of-the-art facilities like the cloud chamber in Pune.
- Weather Management: Strategies to manage events such as rainfall, hail, fog, and lightning.
Institutions Leading the Mission
Mission Mausam is spearheaded by three primary institutions:
- India Meteorological Department (IMD), New Delhi
- National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting, Noida
- Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune
Benefits to Key Sectors
- Agriculture: Improved weather forecasting aids farmers in planning.
- Disaster Management: Enhanced preparedness reduces the impact of natural disasters.
- Tourism and Health: Better air quality monitoring and weather information.
- Fisheries: Real-time updates ensure the safety of marine workers.
Celebrations of IMD’s 150th Foundation Day
Commemorative Releases
During the celebrations at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, PM Modi unveiled:
- A ₹150 commemorative coin issued by the Ministry of Finance.
- A commemorative postage stamp honoring IMD’s achievements.
IMD Vision 2047 Document
The Vision 2047 document outlines a roadmap for achieving weather resilience and adapting to climate change by the time India marks 100 years of independence in 2047. It highlights goals for:
- Advanced weather forecasting systems.
- Climate change mitigation strategies.
- Disaster management improvements.
National Meteorological Olympiad
To engage the youth, the IMD organized a National Meteorological Olympiad, which saw enthusiastic participation from thousands of students. This initiative aimed to spark interest in meteorology and related sciences.
Akhand Bharat Seminar
Participants and Purpose
As part of the celebrations, the IMD hosted an Akhand Bharat Seminar in New Delhi. Representatives from neighboring countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, were invited. While Pakistan confirmed participation, Bangladesh declined.
Officials from West Asia, Central Asia, and Southwest Asia also joined the seminar to discuss regional cooperation in meteorology.
Advancements in IMD Infrastructure
Technological Expansion
Over the last decade, IMD has significantly enhanced its infrastructure, including:
- Increased Doppler Weather Radars and Automatic Weather Stations.
- Deployment of Runway Weather Monitoring Systems.
- Establishment of District-wise Rainfall Monitoring Stations.
Supercomputers and Observatories
India’s meteorological capacity has been bolstered by:
- Supercomputers Ark and Arunika, introduced in 2024.
- Meteorological observatories in Antarctica: Maitri and Bharati.
Digital Integration
Weather information is now more accessible through platforms like:
- Meghdoot Mobile App: Provides local weather updates in regional languages.
- WhatsApp Forecasts: Real-time alerts for citizens.
Traditional Knowledge and Meteorology
India’s Ancient Expertise
PM Modi highlighted India’s rich heritage in meteorology, with references to ancient texts like:
- Vedas, Samhitas, and Surya Siddhanta: Contain advanced knowledge of weather and climate.
- Krishi Parashar and Brihat Samhita: Early works studying clouds and rainfall.
He emphasized the need to integrate traditional knowledge with modern science for more comprehensive research.
Tribal Wisdom
India’s tribal communities possess deep insights into nature and animal behavior, which can complement scientific studies in meteorology.
Global Contributions
Disaster Management
India has made great strides in weather forecasting, which has dramatically improved our ability to prepare for and respond to natural disasters. PM Modi recalled devastating cyclones like:
- 1998 Cyclone in Kandla, Gujarat
- 1999 Super Cyclone in Odisha
With improved forecasting, India has reduced loss of life and economic damage in recent years.
Regional Support
India’s Flash Flood Guidance system benefits neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, showcasing India’s commitment as a global partner.
Conclusion
Mission Mausam signifies India’s dedication to becoming a climate-smart nation. With advanced research, improved infrastructure, and regional cooperation, this mission will strengthen India’s meteorological capabilities and benefit various sectors, ensuring a sustainable and resilient future.
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Quiz Time
Q1. When was Mission Mausam launched, and by whom?
A1. Mission Mausam was launched on January 14, 2025, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 150th Foundation Day celebrations of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Q2. What is the primary goal of Mission Mausam?
A2. The primary goal of Mission Mausam is to make India a weather-ready and climate-smart nation by strengthening research and development in atmospheric sciences and enhancing weather forecasting and management systems.
Q3. What is the budget allocated for Mission Mausam, and its duration?
A3. A budget of ₹2000 crore has been allocated for Mission Mausam, with an initial duration of two years.
Q4. What significant documents and items were released during the 150th Foundation Day celebrations of IMD?
A4. The Prime Minister released the IMD Vision-2047 document, a ₹150 commemorative coin, and a commemorative postage stamp during the celebrations.
Q5. Which countries participated in the Akhand Bharat Seminar organized by IMD?
A5. Pakistan confirmed its participation, while Bangladesh declined. Other countries like Afghanistan, Myanmar, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal were also invited.
Q6. What are the key institutions involved in implementing Mission Mausam?
A6. The key institutions involved are:
- India Meteorological Department (IMD), New Delhi
- National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting, Noida
- Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune
Q7. What are the technological advancements introduced under Mission Mausam?
A7. Technological advancements include next-generation weather radars, high-performance supercomputers like Ark and Arunika, enhanced atmospheric observation systems, and a state-of-the-art cloud chamber facility in Pune.
Q8. What is the IMD Vision-2047 document?
A8. The IMD Vision-2047 document outlines a roadmap for enhancing weather resilience, improving forecasting capabilities, and addressing climate change challenges by 2047, coinciding with India’s 100 years of independence.
Q9. How has IMD contributed to disaster management in India?
A9. IMD’s advancements in weather forecasting and early warning systems have significantly reduced loss of life and economic damage from natural disasters like cyclones and floods.
Q10. What historical and cultural connections were highlighted during the event?
A10. PM Modi emphasized India’s rich tradition of meteorological expertise, referencing ancient texts like the Vedas, Sangam literature, and Krishi Parashar, which demonstrate early weather knowledge integrated with traditional practices.