Context

Four new initiatives are aimed at better climate modeling & access to climate information. Everyone is a beneficiary of IMD’s efforts

Introduction

• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) celebrated its 150th anniversary with the launch of innovative initiatives aimed at bolstering climate forecasting and improving accessibility to weather data.

Historical Overview: Dr Mrityunjay Mohapatra, the IMD’s director general, reflected on the inception of the IMD in 1875 during the First War of Independence, emphasizing its role in protecting life and property from natural disasters.

• IMD Theme Song: The IMD commemorated its 150 years with a theme song written by poet Gajendra Solank, capturing the essence of the department's dedication to safeguarding against natural calamities.
• Climate Change Services Focus: A significant portion of the event emphasized the IMD's climate change services, including ozone monitoring and flood meteorological services, aiming to establish databases and enhance resilience against climate-related disasters.

New Initiatives by IMD:

1. National Framework for Climate Services (NFCS):

• Objective: To increase climate forecasting and enhance the accessibility of weather data.
• UN Model: Modeled after the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) adopted by the UN in 2012.
• Purpose: Facilitate the exchange of climate information among different government departments and international agencies.
• Impact: Aims to establish the IMD as a regional leader in climate information through collaboration and soft diplomacy.

1. Weather Analysis and Forecast Enabling System (WAFES) Decision Support System:

• Platform: Integrated system for visualizing weather forecasts and climate models.
• Features: Provides risk warnings for extreme weather events and their socio-economic impact across the country.
• Purpose: Enhance the IMD's capabilities in climate modeling, prediction, and risk assessment.

1. Panchayat Mausam Seva:

• Collaboration: Developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Panchayat Raj.
• Objective: Increase accessibility of weather information for farmers through the gram panchayat system.
• Impact: Aims to assist farmers with accurate weather predictions, aligning with the "Har Har Mausam, Har Ghar Mausam" slogan.

1. Mausam App:

• Features: Offers comprehensive weather forecasts, sunrise and sunset timings, and risk assessments for extreme weather events at the user's location.
• Objective: Increase accessibility to weather information for citizens, making everyone a beneficiary of the IMD's efforts.

Way Forward:

As the IMD marks its 150th anniversary, these new initiatives demonstrate India's commitment to leveraging advanced meteorological technologies for improved climate services and disaster resilience. The integration of technology, collaboration with various sectors, and a focus on accessibility reflect a forward-looking approach in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.