Timely weather information for panchayats essential for nation’s growth: Earth Sciences Minister
Government Unveils Innovative Weather Forecasting Tool to Boost Agricultural Productivity in Rural Areas
India can be a leader among the world in reaping dividends from the accurate
weather forecasting models, leading to benefit of humanity: Dr Jitendra Singh
'Mission Mausam' recently launched by Modi Govt 3.0 to meet global standards
In a significant move to enhance agricultural productivity, Union
Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of
State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic
Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Dr Jitendra
Singh today addressed the launch and training workshop on weather forecast
initiative aimed at Gram Panchayats across India. Addressing a training
workshop, he emphasized the importance of providing timely and localized
weather information to nearly 2.6 lakh panchayats, thereby directly supporting
the nation’s farmers.
This initiative, part of the Government of India’s broader commitment to
strengthen the rural economy, utilises the innovative Mausamgram platform.
Developed by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Mausamgram delivers precise
weather forecasts, offering hourly updates for the next 36 hours and
comprehensive 10-day forecasts. These updates cover critical parameters such as
temperature, rainfall, humidity, wind, and cloud conditions—essential data that
farmers need for informed decision-making regarding sowing, harvesting, and
irrigation.
Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted that this technology will enable weather
forecasts to be accessible anytime and anywhere at the panchayat level,
significantly improving the lives of farmers and rural citizens. “This
initiative will ensure that farmers and common citizens receive timely updates,
helping them make informed decisions to improve both productivity and safety,”
he stated.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), which has been serving
farmers since 1945, has consistently enhanced its services, introducing notable
initiatives such as Agro Advisory Services (AAS) and Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa
(GKMS). The AAS currently provides crop-specific advisories to over 28 million
farmers, accessible through various platforms like the Meghdoot app and
WhatsApp groups. The Mausam Gram platform further builds on this foundation,
allowing forecasts based on pincode or Gram Panchayat names.
Moreover, Dr Jitendra Singh praised the IMD’s technological
advancements, noting a remarkable 40% improvement in forecast accuracy over the
past decade. The lead time for severe weather warnings has also increased to
seven days, drastically reducing the risks associated with extreme weather
events like cyclones and heatwaves.
According to the Minister, 'Mission Mausam' recently launched by the Modi
Govt 3.0 will meet global standards.
The government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,
has launched Mission Mausam, with a budget of Rs 2,000 crore. This ambitious
initiative aims to enhance observational systems, expand radar networks, and
improve public outreach—strengthening India’s capacity to respond to
climate-related challenges.
According to the Minister, 'Mission Mausam' launched by Modi Govt 3.0 to
meet global standards.
The event also underscored India’s role in global climate resilience.
The IMD is acting as a peer advisor for five developing nations as part of the
United Nations’ Early Warning for All initiative, reflecting India’s commitment
to enhancing global early warning systems.
In closing, Dr Jitendra Singh commended the collaborative efforts of the
IMD, Ministry of Earth Sciences, and the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in
launching this ground breaking initiative, which promises to benefit millions of
farmers and rural communities across the nation. As weather forecasts become
more accessible, this innovative step is poised to transform agricultural
practices, ensuring that India’s farmers are equipped with the information they
need to thrive.