NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded India’s meteorological advancements on Tuesday, emphasizing their role in enhancing disaster management, benefiting the global community, and strengthening India’s image as a “Vishwa Bandhu” (world friend). Speaking at the 150th foundation day celebration of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Modi described the milestone as a “glorious journey of India’s modern science and technology.”
India’s Contribution to Global Disaster Response
PM Modi highlighted India’s consistent efforts to assist neighboring countries during natural calamities, showcasing how meteorological expertise has amplified India’s soft power on the world stage. He noted that the IMD has significantly contributed to improving disaster resilience, both domestically and internationally.
Mission Mausam and Future Directions
The Prime Minister unveiled ‘Mission Mausam,’ a visionary initiative aimed at deploying cutting-edge technologies to enhance weather forecasting and disaster preparedness. The plan includes:
- High-resolution atmospheric observations
- Next-generation radars and satellites
- Advanced weather surveillance systems
- High-performance computing infrastructure
Modi urged scientists and researchers to focus on future needs, including the development of early warning systems for natural disasters like earthquakes.
Integrating Traditional Knowledge with Modern Science
PM Modi underlined India’s rich history of meteorological expertise, rooted in ancient texts such as the Vedas, Samhitas, and Surya Siddhanta. He called for deeper exploration of this traditional knowledge and its integration with contemporary scientific practices.
- He cited examples from ancient works like ‘Krishi Parashar’ and ‘Brihat Samhita,’ which studied cloud formation and planetary positions without modern instruments.
- Modi emphasized the need for more research to substantiate and modernize this traditional wisdom.
IMD’s Evolving Role
Established on January 15, 1875, the IMD has been a cornerstone of India’s efforts in disaster management, agriculture, aviation, and public safety.
- Its forecasting accuracy improved by 40% in 2023 compared to 2014.
- Modi highlighted the IMD’s role in planning his visit to Sonamarg, Jammu & Kashmir, on Monday, where a 6.5-km tunnel was inaugurated, based on the department’s precise weather predictions.
Union Minister’s Remarks
Union Minister of Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh praised the IMD for its rising accuracy in weather forecasts over the last decade.
As the IMD celebrates 150 years of service, its blend of modern technology, traditional knowledge, and global cooperation continues to make it a cornerstone of India’s scientific and humanitarian achievements.
