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India Meteorological Department (IMD) is the cornerstone of India’s weather and climate services. Established on January 15, 1875, IMD has completed 150 years, marking a milestone in its journey of scientific advancement. Operating under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, IMD plays an important role in forecasting weather, monitoring climate, and aiding disaster management.

150 Years of India Meteorological Department

150th anniversary of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) was celebrated on January 15, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. During this special occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the IMD Vision 2047 and launched Mission Mausam. 

Indian Meteorological Department History

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) was established on January 15, 1875, in response to severe weather events like the 1864 tropical cyclone in Calcutta and recurring monsoon failures, which underscored the necessity for a centralized weather monitoring system.

Initially, IMD focused on basic weather observations and data collection. By the early 20th century, it expanded its network of observatories across India, significantly enhancing localized weather predictions. Over time, IMD continuously upgraded its capabilities by adopting advanced technologies such as Doppler radar systems, satellite imagery, and modern weather prediction models.

Today, the India Meteorological Department stands as a global leader in meteorological services, providing critical insights into weather and climate for diverse sectors while strengthening disaster management and resilience.

What is the India Meteorological Department?

The India Meteorological Department, commonly referred to as IMD, is India’s national weather agency. Its primary responsibilities include:

• Disaster Management Role: The role of the IMD in disaster management is critical. The department provides timely and accurate weather forecasts that help communities prepare for severe weather events.
• Warnings for Natural Disasters: IMD issues warnings for cyclones, floods, and other disasters, saving lives and reducing economic losses.
• Support for Agriculture: Farmers rely on IMD’s rainfall and temperature forecasts to make informed decisions about planting and harvesting.
• Aviation Industry Support: The aviation sector depends on IMD for accurate weather data to ensure safe flight operations.
• Climate Change Research: IMD monitors climate patterns and provides data to help policymakers and researchers develop strategies for climate change mitigation.

Key Milestones of IMD Over 150 Years

The India Meteorological Department has made significant progress in weather forecasting and disaster management over its 150-year history, adapting to new technologies and challenges. Here are some of the key achievements of IMD over the years:

• Improved Forecast Accuracy: Since 2014, weather forecasting accuracy has increased by 40% due to advanced prediction models.
• Expanded Doppler Radar Network: The number of radar stations grew from 15 in 2014 to 39 in 2023, improving weather monitoring and warnings.
• Use of Technology: IMD introduced platforms like the Crowdsource web interface and the “Public Observation” mobile app, allowing users to report local weather conditions.
• Reduced Cyclone Fatalities: Accurate warnings have decreased cyclone-related deaths from 10,000 in 1999 to zero between 2020 and 2024.

Role of the Indian Meteorological Department

 The role of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) is to provide weather forecasts, track climate changes, and give early warnings about natural disasters. It helps farmers, airlines, and disaster management teams to plan better and stay safe. IMD’s functions are pivotal to multiple sectors which include: 

• Disaster Management:

• Provides timely warnings for cyclones, floods, and storms, saving lives and reducing economic losses.

• Helps communities prepare and respond to extreme weather events.

• Agriculture Support:

• Farmers rely on IMD’s rainfall and temperature forecasts for planning sowing and harvesting.

• Specialized agrometeorological services enhance crop productivity.

• Aviation and Shipping:

• Offers precise weather data for safe flight operations and maritime navigation.

• Climate Change Research:

• IMD monitors long-term climate patterns and provides critical data for formulating climate policies.

Role of IMD in Disaster Management

The IMD plays a crucial role in disaster management by providing early warnings for severe weather events like cyclones and floods. The Role of IMD in Disaster Management include:

• Cyclones: Issues timely alerts, allowing authorities to evacuate people from vulnerable areas.
• Floods: Provides forecasts to help manage river water levels and prevent flash floods.
• Heatwaves: Offers early warnings to reduce health risks during extreme temperatures.

Achievements of the Indian Meteorological Department

The achievements of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) include improving weather forecasts, expanding radar networks, and reducing cyclone-related deaths. It has also developed tools to engage the public and improve weather prediction accuracy. Some of its achievements include:

• Improved Forecast Accuracy: Since 2014, forecast accuracy has improved by 40%, ensuring better disaster preparedness.
• Expanded Doppler Radar Network: Increased the number of radar stations from 15 in 2014 to 39 by 2023, enhancing real-time monitoring.
• Cyclone Management: Accurate forecasts have reduced cyclone-related fatalities to almost zero between 2020 and 2024.
• Public Engagement: Platforms like the “Public Observation” app encourage citizens to report local weather conditions, improving forecast accuracy.

IMD Vision 2047

The IMD Vision 2047 document outlines the roadmap for India’s weather resilience and adaptation to climate change as the nation nears its 100th year of independence. The vision prioritizes advancements in weather forecasting, disaster management, and climate action over the next few decades. Some of the key objectives outlined in this vision include:

• Zero Disaster-Related Deaths: Through advanced forecasting and proactive disaster management.
• Enhanced Forecast Accuracy: Targets 90% accuracy for five-day forecasts and 80% for seven-day forecasts.
• Comprehensive Weather Detection: Aims to achieve 100% coverage of weather events.
• Investment in Technology: Plans to adopt next-generation systems and improve infrastructure.

Mission Mausam

Mission Mausam launched on the sidelines of Vision 2047. It focuses on making India a climate-smart nation. 150th anniversary of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Key Highlights of Mission Mausam include:

• Development of advanced monitoring tools like high-resolution atmospheric models.
• Contribution to air quality management and climate research.

In conclusion, the India Meteorological Department has been a pillar of resilience and innovation for 150 years. From weather forecasting to disaster management, its contributions have saved countless lives and strengthened India’s preparedness. As IMD looks forward to 2047 with Vision 2047 and Mission Mausam, it reaffirms its commitment to building a climate-smart and disaster-resilient nation.

To learn more about the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and its scope in Indian Climate Forecasting, and various other important institutions from the perspective of UPSC exams, explore IAS Hub Courses for the upcoming UPSC Prelims 2025 and Mains Exam.

Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) FAQs