PM Modi Launches Ambitious ‘Mission Mausam’ on IMD’s 150th Anniversary
On January 15, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the much-anticipated ‘Mission Mausam’ on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance the understanding of climate patterns and improve weather forecasting in India, a country that is highly vulnerable to extreme weather events such as cyclones, floods, and droughts.
Addressing a gathering at the event, which was held virtually, PM Modi emphasized the critical role of weather and climate forecasting in the nation’s development. “Our dependence on agriculture, infrastructure, and livelihoods makes weather forecasting an essential tool in safeguarding lives and sustaining our economy. With this mission, we are not just celebrating the IMD’s glorious past but also taking a monumental step towards a future with better climate resilience,” Modi stated.
Vision of Mission Mausam
‘Mission Mausam’ is designed to be a comprehensive national program aimed at improving weather prediction capabilities, advancing research in climate science, and increasing preparedness against climate-related disasters. The mission is built on four primary pillars: strengthening the capabilities of the IMD, enhancing forecasting systems, increasing public awareness, and bolstering disaster management strategies.
The mission also seeks to deepen India’s understanding of monsoon variability, cyclones, heatwaves, and other extreme climatic events that impact the country. With climate change becoming an undeniable reality, the initiative intends to create a network of advanced meteorological tools and resources that can provide real-time, accurate data to mitigate the negative effects of weather-related disasters.
A Step Towards Technological Advancement
At the heart of ‘Mission Mausam’ is the adoption of cutting-edge technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and big data analytics. By integrating these technologies, the IMD aims to produce more accurate and timely weather forecasts that can aid farmers, businesses, and the general public in making informed decisions.
The initiative also promises to upgrade the observational infrastructure across the country. This will involve the installation of more weather stations, satellite systems, and advanced radar systems, which will enhance the department’s ability to provide localized and real-time data.
Disaster Risk Reduction
India is particularly vulnerable to extreme weather events due to its vast geographical diversity, ranging from coastal areas prone to cyclones to inland regions affected by droughts and floods. According to the latest data from the National Disaster Management Authority, the country experiences around 7,000-10,000 deaths annually due to natural calamities, most of which are linked to weather anomalies.
‘Mission Mausam’ will play a pivotal role in reducing the impact of such disasters. The enhanced early warning systems, combined with more precise weather predictions, will allow for better preparedness and faster response times. Local communities will be trained to use this information, ensuring that people living in high-risk zones receive alerts in real time, enabling timely evacuation and disaster mitigation efforts.
Collaboration with Global Partners
In a globalized world where climate change is a shared concern, ‘Mission Mausam’ also promotes collaboration with international organizations, meteorological agencies, and climate scientists worldwide. India will collaborate with countries like the United States, Japan, and the United Kingdom, leveraging their expertise in weather science and technology. This international cooperation is expected to facilitate knowledge-sharing, joint research projects, and improvements in forecasting models.
Future Prospects
The long-term objective of the mission is to position India as a global leader in meteorological research and disaster management. With an increased focus on sustainable practices and resilience-building, the country aims to mitigate the impacts of climate change and safeguard the well-being of its citizens.
India’s proactive approach to tackling climate challenges through ‘Mission Mausam’ has been hailed by experts as an essential step towards the nation’s climate adaptation strategy. As the global climate crisis intensifies, initiatives like this can be game-changers in saving lives, minimizing economic losses, and ensuring environmental sustainability.
On the milestone occasion of IMD’s 150th anniversary, PM Modi’s launch of ‘Mission Mausam’ highlights the government’s commitment to investing in the future of climate science and disaster management. The mission represents not only a scientific advancement but also a moral responsibility to protect and prepare the nation for the unpredictable weather patterns of tomorrow.
