PM Narendra Modi Launches 'Mission Mausam' on IMD's 150th Anniversary to Make India 'Weather Ready, Climate Smart'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today launched the ambitious 'Mission Mausam' on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The initiative is designed to prepare India for diverse weather conditions and enhance climate awareness. It aims to revolutionize weather forecasting technologies and strengthen the country's resilience to climate change. Alongside, the IMD unveiled its strategic roadmap for the future, IMD Vision-2047, which aspires to transform India into a "Weather Ready, Climate Smart" nation by significantly improving its forecasting capabilities and bolstering climate adaptability.

Key Objectives of Mission Mausam

Technological Advancement
Mission Mausam prioritizes the deployment of cutting-edge meteorological monitoring technologies and systems. Key components include:
- Establishing a robust network of high-resolution atmospheric observation stations.
- Deploying next-generation radars and satellites.
- Acquiring high-performance computing infrastructure to support advanced weather modeling.
Improved Forecast Accuracy
By leveraging these advanced technologies, the mission aims to enhance the accuracy of weather forecasts and reduce lead times. This will enable more effective early warning systems for extreme weather events such as cyclones, floods, droughts, and heatwaves.
Climate Change Adaptation
The initiative will play a critical role in helping India adapt to the impacts of climate change. It includes:
- Developing climate change projections.
- Assessing climate risks.
- Providing climate information services across various economic sectors, including agriculture, water resources, and disaster management.
Regional Collaboration
Recognizing the regional nature of weather and climate challenges, Mission Mausam emphasizes collaboration with neighboring countries. Despite some disruptions, such as Bangladesh's absence due to travel restrictions, the IMD has invited meteorologists and climate scientists from Pakistan, Maldives, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal to participate in programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
Enhanced Weather Monitoring
Advanced radars and satellites under the mission will facilitate high-resolution atmospheric observations, ensuring more precise and timely weather forecasts.
High-Performance Computing
The integration of state-of-the-art computing systems is expected to efficiently process vast meteorological data, support complex climate models, and enable more accurate simulations.
Deepening Understanding of Weather and Climate
Mission Mausam seeks to enhance research and development efforts to gain deeper insights into atmospheric phenomena, refine forecasting abilities, and guide policy decisions.

IMD Vision-2047: The Roadmap Ahead

IMD Vision-2047 aligns with the goals of Mission Mausam and sets a long-term strategy to build on India's meteorological capabilities. By 2047, the IMD aims to:

Achieve unparalleled accuracy in weather predictions.
Expand its services to cater to diverse sectors, including energy, health, and urban planning.
Foster international partnerships for shared learning and technological innovation.

A Step Towards Climate Resilience

Prime Minister Modi lauded the IMD for its 150 years of service and highlighted the significance of Mission Mausam in addressing both immediate and long-term weather and climate challenges. He emphasized the critical role of accurate forecasting and data-driven strategies in safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the environment.

This milestone initiative reflects India’s commitment to harnessing scientific advancements and fostering global collaboration to tackle climate change and build a sustainable future.