Jitendra Singh Explores Historic Meteorological Centre in Shimla, Established in 1875
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Synopsis
Union Minister Jitendra Singh visited Shimla's oldest meteorological centre, established in 1875. His visit highlighted the institution's significant role in weather forecasting and the government's commitment to enhancing meteorological services.
Key Takeaways
- Visit to India's oldest meteorological centre established in 1875.
- Emphasis on the importance of accurate weather forecasting.
- Launch of 'Mission Weather' to improve meteorological services.
- Government's commitment to climate resilience and disaster preparedness.
- IMD's role in socio-economic development through timely forecasts.
Shimla, Jan 17 (NationPress) The Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, visited the country’s oldest meteorological centre located in the capital of Himachal Pradesh, which lies in the geo-sensitive Himalayan region. His visit highlighted the institution’s rich history and its ongoing commitment to improving weather forecasting.
“This is the oldest station of the IMD, founded in 1875, and it has played a crucial role in delivering essential weather forecasts for northern India,” Singh noted during his visit, coinciding with the 150th anniversary of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
He emphasized the centre’s strategic importance, where accurate weather predictions are critical for disaster preparedness and enhancing climate resilience.
The minister also spoke about the Modi government’s initiative to strengthen India’s meteorological capabilities, stating, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made this department a priority as part of his vision. Within the first 100 days of the Modi government 3.0, we initiated ‘Mission Weather,’ aimed at transforming our meteorological services. By 2035, we plan to establish India’s own space station, envisioned as the Indian Space Station.
Singh praised the IMD’s efforts in leveraging modern technology to tackle the challenges posed by a changing climate. He stressed the department’s role in supporting India’s socio-economic growth by protecting lives and livelihoods through timely and precise weather forecasts.
During his visit, Jitendra Singh assessed operations at critical sections of the centre, such as the forecasting and inspection units. Kuldeep Srivastava, the Head of the Meteorological Centre, briefed him on the institution’s accomplishments, current capabilities, and future plans for enhancement. Singh acknowledged the department for improving public outreach, particularly in Himachal Pradesh, a region prone to extreme weather events.
The visit concluded with Singh reaffirming the government’s dedication to establishing the IMD as a global leader in meteorology. The occasion not only celebrated a century and a half of meteorological achievements but also highlighted the vital role of weather science in addressing future challenges.
