India Meteorological Department (IMD): Celebrating 150 Years

Context:
On January 15, 2025, the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the nation’s primary weather forecasting agency, celebrated its 150th anniversary. Established in 1875, IMD has played a critical role in weather forecasting, seismology, and disaster management. Operating under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, it is a cornerstone in India's efforts to mitigate the impacts of weather-related events and improve climate resilience.

About IMD

Key Facts

1. Established: 1875
2. Headquarters: New Delhi
3. Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Earth Sciences
4. Mandate:
   • Meteorological Observations: Collect weather data across India.
   • Forecasting: Provide forecasts for weather-dependent sectors like agriculture, aviation, and shipping.
   • Warnings: Issue alerts for severe weather phenomena (e.g., cyclones, heatwaves).
   • Statistics: Offer data for national planning and industries.
   • Research: Promote studies in meteorology and allied sciences.

Historical Background

• The IMD was founded in response to devastating cyclones in 1864, which struck Kolkata and the Andhra coast, causing significant loss of life and property.
• The absence of a structured atmospheric monitoring system led to its establishment.
• H.F. Blanford, the first Imperial Meteorological Reporter, began its operations.
• Under Gilbert Walker (appointed in 1903), the IMD advanced monsoon predictions and identified large-scale oscillations like El Niño.

IMD’s Journey Over 150 Years

Evolution and Milestones

• Began as a small organization with a single head; today, it operates permanent observatories and automated weather stations nationwide.
• Played a pivotal role in cyclone forecasting, especially after the 1999 Odisha super cyclone, leading to reduced casualties.
• Recognized as a Regional Climate Centre for South Asia, providing critical forecasts to 13 neighboring countries.

Technological Advancements (2014-2024)

• Doppler Weather Radars: Increased from 15 to 39.
• Automatic Weather Stations: Expanded to 1,208.
• Rainfall Monitoring Stations: Rose to 6,095.
• Satellite Monitoring: INSAT 3DR and 3DS provide round-the-clock weather updates.
• Forecast Accuracy:
  • Heatwave prediction: Improved to 95% accuracy for two days in advance.
  • Cyclone track prediction: Enhanced by 35-40%, leading to zero loss of human lives in recent events.

Notable Contributions

• Specialized Services:
  • Support for elections, sporting events, and space launches.
  • Early warnings for disasters, reducing human and economic losses.
• Global Collaborations:
  • Contributes to the United Nations’ Early Warning for All program, aiding over 30 countries.

IMD’s Vision for the Future

Vision Document 2047

The IMD aims to become a weather manager and evolve its capabilities by 2047, the centenary year of India's independence.

Goals:

• Zero-Error Forecasts: Achieve hyper-localized accuracy (5-6 km resolution) for village-level predictions.
• Extended Forecast Accuracy:
  • Five-day forecasts: 90% accuracy.
  • 10-day forecasts: 70% accuracy.
• Eliminating Weather Fatalities: Minimize deaths from severe weather events within the next 20 years.

Weather Management Initiatives

• Mission Mausam:
  • Inaugurated by PM Modi, focusing on weather modification.
  • Cloud Seeding Research: Through the Cloud Chamber at IITM, Pune.
• Advanced Monitoring:
  • Deployment of UAVs, IoT-based sensors, and regional climate reference stations.
  • Round-the-clock upper atmosphere monitoring with satellites and radars.

Achievements and Impact

Enhanced Accuracy and Coverage

• Cyclone forecasting and disaster management have saved countless lives.
• Improved thunderstorm detection and rainfall prediction have mitigated economic losses.

Global Role and Recognition

• Serves as a model for meteorological services in South Asia.
• Actively participates in international initiatives to address climate change and disaster resilience.

Conclusion

The 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department is a moment to celebrate its legacy and achievements. From its establishment in 1875 to becoming a global leader in meteorology, the IMD has consistently safeguarded lives and supported India's growth. As it looks ahead to Vision 2047, the IMD is set to redefine weather management, ensuring a climate-smart and weather-ready India.