150 Years of India Meteorological Department (IMD)

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), established in 1875, is one of the oldest scientific institutions in India dedicated to weather forecasting and disaster preparedness. As it marks its 150th anniversary on January 15, 2025, the IMD continues to play a pivotal role in tracking weather patterns, issuing cyclone warnings, monitoring earthquakes, and studying atmospheric changes.

Evolution of Meteorology in India

• Ancient Roots: Early texts like the Upanishads (circa 3000 B.C.) discuss weather phenomena, including cloud formation, rain cycles, and seasons.
• Modern Meteorology: Scientific advancements began in the 17th century with the invention of the thermometer, barometer, and gas laws.
• First Observatory: Established in 1785 in Kolkata (Calcutta) to conduct weather studies.

Foundation of IMD

• Founded in 1875 by the British Government of India to centralize weather data collection.
• The first Meteorological Reporter was Henry Francis Blanford.
• IMD’s creation was accelerated after the 1864 Calcutta cyclone, which killed over 60,000 people, and the 1866 Orissa famine, caused by failed monsoons.

IMD’s Role in India’s Development

• IMD has expanded to operate six Regional Meteorological Centres and state-level centres in all capitals.
• These are located in Chennai, Guwahati, Kolkata, Mumbai, Nagpur and New Delhi.
• It became a member of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1949 after India’s independence.
• IMD provides weather forecasts, cyclone alerts, earthquake monitoring, and pollution tracking to help the country prepare for natural disasters.

IMD’s Infrastructure and Operations

• Uses a complex communication network for data collection from ground observatories, naval ships, atmospheric balloons, and satellites.
• Generates warnings for extreme weather events to safeguard lives and property.

Significance of IMD

• The IMD’s accurate forecasting has been crucial in reducing disaster impacts over the years.
• It continues to improve weather forecasting technologies to strengthen India’s climate resilience and disaster management capabilities.

IMD’s Milestone

Key Functions of IMD

• Weather Forecasting: Monitors monsoon, cyclones, and rainfall.
• Disaster Warnings: Provides alerts for cyclones, storms, and extreme weather.
• Earthquake Monitoring: Tracks seismic activities across the country.
• Pollution Tracking: Monitors air quality and atmospheric pollution.
• Climate Services: Supports agriculture, aviation, water management, and disaster preparedness.

Significance of IMD’s 150th Anniversary

• The 150th anniversary of IMD marks a significant milestone in India’s progress in meteorology and disaster management.
• IMD’s continuous upgrades in forecasting technology and data collection systems have made it a vital institution for ensuring the country’s climate resilience and public safety.