JAMMU, Jan 10: The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, made a significant announcement at the “Stakeholders Workshop on Weather & Climate Services” on the eve of IMD’s 150th anniversary, declaring the establishment of a Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu.
This initiative aims to enhance meteorological services in Jammu and Kashmir, bolstering disaster preparedness and climate resilience in the area.
Dr. Jitendra Singh praised IMD’s outstanding contributions to India’s scientific progress, highlighting its evolution into a globally recognized leader in meteorological services. “Since its inception in 1875, IMD has transformed into a dynamic institute that offers essential weather data, assisting sectors such as agriculture, disaster management, aviation, and defense. The reliability and precision of its forecasts have significantly improved, empowering the public to make well-informed choices,” he noted.
The Minister emphasized the historical significance of the Srinagar Meteorology Centre, acknowledged as a Centennial Centre by the World Meteorological Organization, and expressed optimism that the new Regional Meteorological Centre in Jammu will achieve similar success. “The new centre will address the distinctive geographical and climatic challenges faced in the Jammu region, contributing to IMD’s mission of providing accurate and timely weather forecasts throughout the country,” he added.
Reflecting on the evolution of IMD, Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed out how advancements in technology since 2014 have transformed India’s meteorological capabilities. “With the integration of advanced space, land, and sea technologies, IMD now provides forecasts with over 40% improved accuracy. This technological progress has been crucial in alleviating the effects of cyclones, flash floods, avalanches, and other natural disasters,” he affirmed.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, IMD has significantly enhanced its infrastructure. Jammu and Kashmir now has double the number of Automated Weather Stations (AWS) compared to ten years ago, along with the installation of sophisticated X-band Radars in Jammu, Srinagar, Manihal, and Leh. These improvements have been vital for delivering accurate weather predictions for key events such as the Amarnath Yatra and Vaishno Devi pilgrimages.
The Minister further discussed the ambitious Mission Mausam, a ₹2,000 crore initiative launched during Modi’s third term within the first 100 days. Aimed to run from 2024 to 2026, the mission aspires to make India “weather-ready and climate-smart.” It focuses on developing enhanced forecasting tools and extending outreach to empower citizens and stakeholders with actionable climate data.
“This mission highlights India’s growing role in climate action, setting standards for other nations. By 2047, we aim for India to be a global hub for meteorological services and disaster preparedness,” asserted Dr. Jitendra Singh.
Additionally, Dr. Jitendra Singh announced forthcoming Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the Srinagar Meteorology Centre and several institutions, including the University of Jammu, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), and Islamic University of Science and Technology, Avantipura. These partnerships will encourage research and innovation in meteorological sciences, nurturing a new generation of weather experts.
He commented on IMD’s growing significance in the daily lives of citizens, providing agricultural advice to farmers and weather updates for aviation and defense personnel in challenging conditions. IMD’s SMS and WhatsApp alerts now reach millions, ensuring dissemination of real-time information.
Dr. Jitendra Singh also shared anecdotal evidence of the trust IMD has garnered, with citizens depending on its forecasts for planning essential life events like weddings. “This trust is a reflection of the commitment and ingenuity of IMD’s team, backed by the government’s steadfast dedication to science and technology,” he remarked.
The celebrations for IMD’s 150th anniversary are set to culminate in a grand occasion in Delhi on January 15, 2025, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the chief guest. This event will not only celebrate the department’s extensive history but also unveil its strategic vision for the future.
“As we mark this landmark occasion, we must strive toward a future where India leads the world in meteorological expertise, ensuring safety, sustainability, and prosperity for all,” Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded.
The establishment of the Regional Meteorological Centre for Jammu is regarded as a pivotal step towards this goal, demonstrating the government’s commitment to reinforcing scientific infrastructure and equipping citizens with dependable weather services.
