Government has established a robust, technology-driven institutional framework to modernize the country’s weather forecasting capacity. This initiative brings together the Indian Meteorological Department, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, and National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting to work collaboratively. By integrating and analysing data from multiple sources, authorities can now deliver more accurate and timely forecasts of severe weather events. Supporting this vision, the government has launched “Mission Mausam,” aimed at transforming India into a climate-smart and weather-ready nation.
The project, modern radar and monitoring systems are being installed to predict heavy rainfall, heatwaves, cyclones, and other extreme weather events within precise timelines. The new Mithuna-FS system operates at a 12-km global resolution and produces forecasts using combined analysis of the atmosphere, oceans, land surface, and sea ice. It also features a 4-km regional model for monsoons and cyclones and a highly detailed 330-meter model for urban fog and air-quality prediction. These advancements have significantly reduced errors in rainfall, temperature, and visibility forecasts, improving severe weather prediction accuracy by 30–40% over the past decade.
To provide citizens with localized information, the “Mausamgram” platform has been developed to deliver hyper-local forecasts down to the village level. The service offers hourly updates for 36 hours, three-hour interval forecasts for five days, and six-hour interval forecasts for ten days. Users can access weather details simply by entering their PIN code or location name, enhancing weather awareness in rural areas.
The use of artificial intelligence and machine learning is further strengthening weather services. AI-based models are proving effective in estimating cyclone intensity, analysing rainfall patterns at micro levels, and generating rapid forecasts for urban regions. As a result, weather alerts are becoming more reliable, faster, and more actionable.
This initiative is particularly beneficial for the agriculture sector. Real-time weather updates are being provided to farmers through a rural agro-meteorological advisory program supported by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Indian Institutes of Technology, and state agricultural universities. A network of 130 units covering 127 agro-climatic zones issues advisories twice a week, guiding farmers on sowing, irrigation, fertilizer use, and harvesting decisions.
Multi-Channel Alerts Reach Millions of Farmers:
Weather alerts are now reaching nearly 5.5 million farmers via SMS, television, internet platforms, and mobile applications. The Meghdoot and Mausam apps provide location-specific forecasts, while IT platforms in 21 states are further strengthening outreach and accessibility.
Panchayat-Level Forecasting Strengthens Disaster Preparedness:
Recently, with support from the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, weather forecasts have been extended to the gram panchayat level. This step has enhanced local disaster preparedness and improved agricultural planning. Overall, through advanced technology, integrated data systems, and institutional coordination, India’s weather forecasting network is rapidly becoming more accurate, accessible, and effective playing a vital role in protecting citizens and boosting farmer prosperity.
FAQs:
1. What is Mission Mausam?
Mission Mausam is a government initiative to modernize India’s weather forecasting network, ensuring accurate and timely weather information.
2. How does Mithuna-FS improve forecasts?
Mithuna-FS uses high-resolution global and regional models to analyze atmosphere, oceans, land, and sea ice, enhancing the prediction of rainfall, cyclones, and fog.
3. What is Mausamgram?
Mausamgram is a platform providing village-level weather forecasts, with updates every hour, every three hours, and every six hours.
4. How can farmers receive weather alerts?
Farmers receive alerts through SMS, television, mobile apps like Meghdoot and Mausam, and IT platforms in 21 states.
5. How does Khetivyapar help farmers with weather info?
Khetivyapar provides insights and guidance on weather patterns, helping farmers plan sowing, irrigation, and harvesting efficiently.
