SHIMLA, January 17 : Marking the 150^th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh visited one of the country’s oldest Meteorological Centre here and highlighted its critical role in the Himalayan region.

The Minister  spotlighted the institution’s historic role and its continued commitment to advancing weather forecasting in India.

“This is one of the oldest stations of the IMD and it has been instrumental in providing critical weather forecasts for North India,” Dr. Jitendra Singh remarked during his visit. He underlined the center’s strategic significance, located in the geo-sensitive Himalayan region, where precise weather predictions are vital for disaster preparedness and climate resilience.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also shed light on the Modi government’s focus on enhancing India’s meteorological capabilities. He noted, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has prioritized this department as a core part of his vision. Within the first 100 days of Modi Government 3.0, we launched ‘Mission Weather,’ which will revolutionize our meteorological services. By 2035, we aim to establish India’s own space station, envisioned as the Indian Space Station.”

The minister lauded the IMD’s efforts in utilizing modern technology to address the complexities of a changing climate. He emphasized the department’s role in supporting India’s socio-economic development by safeguarding lives and livelihoods through timely and accurate weather predictions.

During his tour, Dr. Jitendra Singh reviewed operations at key sections of the Shimla center, including forecasting and inspection units. Dr. Kuldeep Srivastava, Head of the Meteorological Centre, briefed him on the institution’s achievements, current capabilities, and plans for future advancements. Dr. Jitendra Singh commended the department for improving public outreach, particularly in Himachal Pradesh, a region vulnerable to extreme weather events.

The visit concluded with Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirming the government’s commitment to positioning the IMD as a global leader in meteorology. He praised the staff for their dedication and innovation, stressing that their work is essential for building a resilient and economically robust India.

The occasion not only celebrated a century and a half of meteorological achievements but also underscored the critical role of weather science in navigating the challenges of the future.

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NKR/PSM

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