As the India Meteorological Department (IMD) marks its 150th (sesquicentennial) anniversary in 2025, it is appropriate to critically examine its historical trajectory, recent accomplishments, and future prospects within the context of India’s meteorological and climate science landscape.
Established in 1875, IMD has played a crucial role in national development through its continuous evolution. Its contributions span various sectors, shaping policies and advancements that impact the nation. Newly introduced initiatives, such as “Mission Mausam,” hold transformative potential, further strengthening its influence and effectiveness.
Historical Context and Institutional Development
The establishment of the IMD in 1875 was precipitated by a series of catastrophic weather events that underscored the imperative for a centralized meteorological monitoring system in India. Notable among these were the tropical cyclone that devastated Calcutta in 1864 and the severe monsoon failures of 1866 and 1871. These events catalyzed the recognition of the critical need for advanced weather forecasting capabilities to mitigate the impact of extreme weather phenomena on the populace and economy.
Over the ensuing 150 years, the IMD has evolved into a cornerstone institution within India’s scientific establishment. Operating under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, the department has expanded its mandate beyond basic weather forecasting to encompass a comprehensive range of meteorological services, climate research, and seismological monitoring. This expansion of scope reflects the growing complexity of atmospheric sciences and the increasing societal demand for precise and timely meteorological information.
Recent Achievements and Technological Advancements
- Improved Forecast Accuracy
- The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has significantly enhanced its forecasting capabilities, achieving a 40% improvement in forecast accuracy in 2023 compared to 2014.
- This advancement is largely due to the expansion of the Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) network, which grew from 15 radars in 2014 to 39 in 2023, leading to a 35% increase in land area coverage.
- The improved accuracy has strengthened early warning systems, helping to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events.
- Advanced Numerical Weather Prediction Models
- IMD has incorporated cutting-edge numerical weather prediction models to enhance real-time forecasting.
- The High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) model is designed for nowcasting, providing highly detailed and short-term forecasts for rainfall and storm reflectivity.
- The Electric Weather Research and Forecasting (EWRF) model focuses on predicting lightning density and accumulated rainfall, improving preparedness for severe weather conditions.
- These models represent significant advancements in meteorological science, enabling more precise and timely weather alerts.
- Indigenous Technological Development
- IMD has made remarkable progress in developing indigenous weather monitoring technology, reducing reliance on foreign imports and supporting national self-reliance.
- Since 1958, the department has developed its own RADAR systems, ensuring sustained advancements in domestic weather surveillance.
- In 1983, IMD began collaborating with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to integrate satellite data into weather forecasting, enhancing accuracy and efficiency.
- The development and domestic production of Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) since 2000 have strengthened India’s ability to monitor climate conditions, aligning with the “Make in India” initiative.
- Modernization of Observational Infrastructure
- As part of its modernization drive, IMD replaced all Mercury Barometers in Class I observatories with Digital Barometers by 2023, in line with the UNEP Minamata Convention, eliminating mercury-related health hazards.
- The deployment of 200 Agro Automatic Weather Stations (AGRO AWS) has significantly bolstered agro-meteorological services, providing farmers with real-time weather data to optimize agricultural planning and reduce climate-related risks.
- These infrastructural upgrades have enhanced data collection, improved weather prediction accuracy, and strengthened India’s preparedness for climate variability.
Through these advancements, IMD has reinforced its role as a leader in meteorological services, leveraging technology for national development, disaster preparedness, and climate resilience.
Public Engagement and Data Democratization
Recognizing the importance of public participation in weather monitoring, the IMD has initiated several crowdsourcing initiatives. In 2021, an online interface was launched to collect weather occurrence and impact information for six key weather events. This was followed by the introduction of the “Public Observation” mobile application in January 2022, enabling real-time weather feedback from users. These initiatives represent a paradigm shift towards more inclusive and participatory approaches in meteorological data collection.
The launch of “Mausamgram,” an interactive location-specific weather forecast meteogram, on January 15, 2024, marks another significant milestone in the IMD’s efforts to democratize access to weather information. This tool exemplifies the department’s commitment to making complex meteorological data accessible and comprehensible to the general public.
Cyclone Prediction and Disaster Mitigation
One of the most impactful achievements of the IMD has been its improvement in cyclone prediction accuracy. The department’s precise forecasts for cyclones such as Phailin (2013), Hudhud (2014), Fani (2019), Amphan (2020), Tauktae (2021), Biparjoy (2023), and Dana (2024) have significantly contributed to disaster preparedness and mitigation efforts. Notably, no cyclone-related fatalities were reported between 2020 and 2024, a testament to the effectiveness of the IMD’s early warning systems and the broader disaster management infrastructure.
Mission Mausam: A Paradigm Shift in Weather Forecasting
The launch of “Mission Mausam” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the eve of IMD’s 150th anniversary represents a significant policy initiative aimed at revolutionizing India’s approach to weather forecasting and climate adaptation. With an allocated budget of Rs 2,000 crore for the initial two years, this ambitious project seeks to elevate India’s meteorological capabilities to unprecedented levels.
The core objectives of Mission Mausam align with the pressing need for enhanced climate resilience and adaptive capacity in the face of intensifying climate change impacts. By focusing on precision, preparedness, and technological progress, the mission aims to benefit a wide array of sectors, including agriculture, aviation, disaster management, and public health.
The potential implications of Mission Mausam are far-reaching. For the agricultural sector, it promises to enable more accurate crop planning and harvesting schedules. In the realm of disaster management, it could facilitate more timely and effective mobilization of response teams. For the general public, it offers the prospect of enhanced daily planning through access to highly accurate weather information.
ACROSS Scheme: A Comprehensive Approach to Atmospheric Science
- Comprehensive Framework for Atmospheric Science
- The Atmosphere & Climate Research – Modelling Observing Systems & Services (ACROSS) scheme is a central sector initiative under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
- It provides a structured framework for various programs aimed at advancing meteorology, climate research, and weather forecasting in India.
- The scheme plays a crucial role in strengthening India’s ability to predict and respond to changing weather patterns and climate conditions.
- Key Sub-Schemes under ACROSS
- The scheme includes several specialized programs designed to improve monsoon prediction, enhance computing capabilities, and deepen climate research:
- Monsoon Convection, Clouds, and Climate Change (MC4) program: Focuses on understanding monsoon dynamics, cloud formation, and the impact of climate change.
- High Performance Computing Systems (HPCS): Develops cutting-edge computational tools to improve weather prediction models.
- Monsoon Mission Phase II (MM-II): Expands research on monsoon variability and long-term climate forecasting, ensuring better preparedness for extreme weather events.
- The scheme includes several specialized programs designed to improve monsoon prediction, enhance computing capabilities, and deepen climate research:
- Collaborative Implementation for Maximum Impact
- ACROSS is implemented through a multi-institutional approach, ensuring the efficient use of expertise and technology.
- Major institutions involved include:
- India Meteorological Department (IMD) – Responsible for weather forecasting and early warning systems.
- Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) – Conducts research on tropical weather and climate patterns.
- National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) – Works on medium-range weather prediction and advanced modeling.
- Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) – Specializes in oceanic observations and early warning systems for coastal areas.
- Strengthening India’s Climate Research Capabilities
- By integrating advanced technology, computational tools, and scientific research, ACROSS enhances India’s ability to analyze and predict climate trends.
- The scheme supports India’s long-term goals in climate resilience, disaster preparedness, and environmental sustainability.
- Its initiatives contribute significantly to India’s leadership in atmospheric and oceanic sciences, ensuring the country remains at the forefront of weather and climate research.
Through ACROSS, India continues to make significant strides in meteorology, climate science, and weather prediction, complementing initiatives like Mission Mausam to create a robust and adaptive climate research framework.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
As the India Meteorological Department celebrates its 150th anniversary, it exemplifies India’s scientific evolution. From its founding in 1875 to becoming a globally recognized meteorological service, IMD’s journey mirrors the nation’s technological progress.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD), with initiatives like Mission Mausam and the ACROSS scheme, is at the forefront of meteorological innovation. These efforts enhance India’s weather forecasting, climate resilience, and adaptive capacity.
Moving forward, IMD must balance technological advancement with addressing climate change challenges. The success of initiatives like Mission Mausam will shape India’s preparedness for extreme weather. Equally crucial is ensuring effective dissemination of forecasts to key sectors for maximum impact.
IMD’s 150th anniversary marks both a milestone and a turning point. As climate threats grow, its role in safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and development becomes more critical. With a strong legacy and ongoing innovation, IMD is well-positioned to meet future challenges and reinforce India’s scientific and technological leadership.
Citation:
https://metnet.imd.gov.in/phps/imdweb_imdarep.php https://mausam.imd.gov.in/event/curtain_raiser_2025.php
https://mausam.imd.gov.in/event/curtain_raiser_2025.php https://mausam.imd.gov.in/responsive/imdBroucher.php https://blog.mygov.in/editorial/celebrating-150-years-of-excellence-a-journey-of-the-indiameteorological-department/
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1990555
MCQ
Q. With reference to Mission Mausam, consider the following statements:
- It is an initiative of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- The mission aims to revive India’s maritime heritage and cultural linkages with Indian Ocean Region countries.
- It primarily focuses on the documentation of tangible heritage like monuments and artifacts.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2, and 3
Correct Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation:
Mission Mausam is an initiative of the Ministry of Culture, not the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. Its primary aim is to revive India’s maritime and cultural linkages with Indian Ocean Region countries by exploring shared cultural and historical heritage. The mission emphasizes the documentation of both tangible and intangible heritage, with a focus on fostering cultural ties, rather than exclusively on tangible heritage like monuments.
Mains Question (15 Marks):
Q. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) plays a crucial role in disaster management, agriculture, and climate resilience in India. Critically analyze the contributions and limitations of IMD in addressing the challenges of weather forecasting and climate variability.
(250 words)