Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the 150th Foundation Day program of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) at Bharat Mandapam on January 14. PM Modi gave a 25-minute speech during which he discussed the development, importance, and challenges faced by IMD.
PM Modi's Address on IMD's Progress
PM Modi mentioned that weather updates are easily available on WhatsApp. He also highlighted that despite several cyclones over the past 10 years, India managed to minimize casualties, unlike previous governments that would attribute such disasters to fate. He shared an example where a program in Sonmarg, Jammu & Kashmir, was rescheduled due to weather updates from IMD, which allowed him to successfully complete the program.
PM Modi emphasized that research and innovation have become an integral part of India’s approach to science and technology. He noted that over the past 10 years, IMD has expanded its infrastructure and technology, including automatic weather stations, runway weather monitoring systems, and district-wise rainfall monitoring systems.
IMD's Role in Weather Forecasting and Disaster Management
PM Modi also highlighted that India is now benefiting from space and digital technologies for weather forecasting. He shared that India has two meteorological observatories in Antarctica, Maitri and Bharati, and that the introduction of supercomputers like Earth and Arunika has enhanced the credibility of IMD's forecasts. These advancements will ensure that India is prepared for all weather conditions in the future.
IMD's Contribution to Public Service
As IMD celebrates its 150th anniversary, PM Modi acknowledged its vital contribution to the lives of millions of Indians. He mentioned the “IMD Vision 2047” document, which outlines the department’s future vision for weather forecasting, agriculture, disaster management, and climate change mitigation. The document aims to further enhance the IMD's capabilities by 2047, marking 100 years of India’s independence.
Through the IMD’s early warning systems, over 90% of the country's population now receives weather updates. The Meghdoot mobile app, available in multiple regional languages, has helped farmers, fishermen, and the general public receive real-time weather information, including warnings about lightning and other weather-related events.
IMD Vision-2047 Document
During the event, PM Modi also launched the IMD Vision-2047 document, which aims to modernize weather management systems. The document includes a blueprint for improving weather forecasting, providing solutions for agriculture, disaster management, industry, and mitigating the impact of climate change.
