Union Minister Highlights IMD’s Role on its 150th Anniversary in Shimla

Shimla: Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh, visited one of India’s oldest Meteorological Centres in Shimla. The minister lauded the center’s pivotal role in advancing weather forecasting, particularly in the geo-sensitive Himalayan region.

“This center has been instrumental in delivering critical weather forecasts for North India. Its strategic location in the Himalayan region underscores its importance in disaster preparedness and climate resilience,” Dr. Singh said during his visit.

Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the Modi government’s focus on enhancing India’s meteorological capabilities. Highlighting initiatives like ‘Mission Weather,’ launched within the first 100 days of the Modi government’s third term, he said, “By 2035, we aim to establish India’s own space station, the Indian Space Station, marking a new era for our meteorological and space capabilities.”

The minister also praised IMD’s integration of modern technology to address challenges posed by climate change. “Timely and accurate weather predictions are essential not only for safeguarding lives but also for supporting India’s socio-economic development,” he added.

During his tour, Dr. Singh reviewed the operations of key sections at the Shimla center, including forecasting and inspection units. Dr. Kuldeep Srivastava, Head of the Meteorological Centre, provided insights into the institution’s achievements and its roadmap for future advancements.

Dr. Singh commended the IMD for improving public outreach, especially in Himachal Pradesh, a region increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events. He noted that the IMD’s work is critical for building a resilient India, particularly in regions prone to natural disasters.

The minister reflected on IMD’s 150-year journey, celebrating its historic contributions while reaffirming the government’s commitment to positioning the IMD as a global leader in meteorology. He praised the department’s staff for their dedication and innovation, calling their efforts vital for navigating the challenges of a rapidly changing climate.