IMD marks 150 years of scientific excellence and service

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the celebrations 150th Foundation Day of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in New Delhi, highlighting its significant contributions to India’s scientific progress and disaster preparedness.

Commemorative initiatives

To honour IMD’s milestone, a commemorative postage stamp, coin, and a vision document for 2047 were unveiled, reflecting the department’s roadmap for the future.

The Prime Minister lauded the IMD for organizing a National Meteorological Olympiad, which saw participation from thousands of students, sparking interest in meteorology among the youth.

Modernizing meteorological infrastructure

Over the past decade, IMD has expanded its technology base, including increased Doppler Weather Radars, Automatic Weather Stations, and supercomputers like Ark and Arunika, enhancing forecast accuracy.

Mission Mausam and disaster preparedness

The launch of ‘Mission Mausam’ emphasizes India’s commitment to becoming climate-smart. Modi praised IMD’s role in minimizing disaster impacts, recalling its life-saving contributions during cyclones and other natural calamities.

IMD’s innovations, such as weather apps and real-time alerts, now serve over 50% of farmers and fisherfolk, providing critical updates that boost safety and productivity in agriculture and the blue economy.

Meteorology and India’s global role

India’s Flash Flood Guidance System aids neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, showcasing India’s leadership in disaster management and strengthening its global standing.

Modi underscored India’s rich heritage of meteorological knowledge, citing texts like Krishi Parashar and Sangam literature. He urged further research to integrate ancient insights with modern science.

Future directions for IMD

Calling for advancements in earthquake warning systems and other innovations, the Prime Minister emphasized IMD’s growing relevance across industries and daily life as forecasts become increasingly precise.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh and World Meteorological Organization Secretary-General Celeste Saulo were among the notable attendees celebrating IMD’s journey of scientific excellence.