India Develops 3D-Printed Automatic Weather Stations, Delhi First to Get Them

Indian scientists have achieved a major technological milestone by developing Automatic Weather Stations using 3D-printing technology. These indigenously built stations aim to improve last-mile weather data collection, especially in cities. The first set of these advanced stations will be installed in Delhi from February, strengthening India’s weather forecasting and climate monitoring capabilities.

Why in the News?

Scientists led by Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology have developed 3D printed Automatic Weather Stations under Mission Mausam, with Delhi set to receive the first installations from February 2026.

About the New Weather Stations

• These stations mark a first-of-its-kind domestic technological development.
• The Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) are fully manufactured in India using 3D-printing technology.
• They automatically record temperature, wind speed, humidity, and rainfall.
• The stations transmit real-time data without manual intervention.
• Solar-powered systems reduce operating and maintenance costs.
• The design allows faster production and easy customization for different regions.

Mission Mausam: The Larger Framework

• The project fits into a nationwide weather modernisation plan.
• Mission Mausam is a ₹2,000 crore programme led by the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
• Its aim is to strengthen weather observation, forecasting, and climate services.
• Urban meteorology is a key focus due to growing climate risks in cities.
• Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata are priority areas.
• Dense observation networks help improve local and short-term forecasts.

Why 3D Printing Matters in Weather Monitoring

• This technology improves efficiency and reduces dependency on imports.
• 3D printing enables precise design of complex components.
• It significantly lowers manufacturing and deployment costs.
• Domestic production supports the Make in India initiative.
• Faster scaling is possible to fill data gaps across the country.
• Reduced reliance on imported equipment enhances self-reliance.

Accuracy, Testing and Calibration

• Ensuring reliable data is a key priority.
• AWS accuracy depends on proper site selection and calibration.
• Earlier issues with damaged sensors highlighted the need for validation.
• New stations will be installed alongside manual observatories initially.
• Data will be cross-checked before full operational use.
• Regular maintenance protocols are part of the deployment plan.
• Static Part: What is an Automatic Weather Station (AWS)?

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. Mission Mausam is implemented under which ministry?

A. Ministry of Science and Technology
B. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
C. Ministry of Earth Sciences
D. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy