Cabinet Approves ₹2,000-Crore ‘Mission Mausam’

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved ‘Mission Mausam’ on September 11, 2024, with an outlay of ₹2,000 crore over two years. The mission, led by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, aims to enhance research and development in atmospheric sciences and improve weather forecasting and management. The initiative will integrate advanced observation systems, high-performance computing, and technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to set new standards in weather prediction.

Key Objectives

Focus Areas: Accuracy in weather forecasting, advanced modelling, improved radar and satellite technology, and precise agromet forecasts.

Implementing Bodies: India Meteorological Department (IMD), Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, and National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting.

Technology Integration: Incorporation of AI, machine learning, and cutting-edge observational systems.

Recent Context

Forecasting Challenges: Recent events, such as the unprecedented rainfall in Delhi on June 28, 2024, highlighted limitations in forecasting single-day rain events. This underscores the need for improved forecasting capabilities.

Current Accuracy Levels: The IMD has reported an 80% accuracy for daily rainfall forecasts over the past five years and a 60% accuracy for five-day forecasts. Recent improvements have boosted accuracy to 88% in July, due to enhanced data and decision support systems.

Expected Outcomes

Improved Forecasts: Enhanced accuracy in weather advisories and nowcast technologies, with goals set for the next 5-6 years.

Enhanced Systems: Upgrades in observational systems, including radars and automatic weather stations, to improve data quality and forecasting accuracy.