INDIA METEOROLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT Syllabus GS Paper 3 – Environment/Disaster)

Context: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) recently marked the commencement of its 150th year, steadfast in its commitment to providing weather and climate services to the country.

India Meteorological Department

• Establishment: IMD was established in 1875 and serves as the National Meteorological Service of India. 
• Purpose: It is the principal government agency for all matters related to meteorology and associated subjects.
• Administrative Affiliation: Operating under the Ministry of Earth Sciences of the Government of India, IMD functions as an agency dedicated to meteorological activities.
• Headquarters: IMD is headquartered in New Delhi, functioning as a central hub for meteorological operations.

Global Recognition:

• IMD is recognized as one of the six Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres of the World Meteorological Organization.

Roles and Responsibilities

• IMD plays a crucial role in various sectors, providing meteorological information and warnings for optimal functioning in weather-sensitive activities.
• One of IMD's primary roles is to conduct meteorological observations and offer current and forecasted information. This supports activities such as agriculture, irrigation, shipping, aviation, and offshore oil explorations.
• IMD issues warnings against severe weather phenomena, including tropical cyclones, norwesters, dust storms, heavy rains, snow, cold and heat waves. These warnings aim to prevent destruction of life and property.
• IMD contributes to various sectors by providing meteorological statistics essential for agriculture, water resource management, industries, oil exploration, and other nation-building activities.