India’s Prithvi Vigyan (PRITHVI) Scheme has expanded the country’s Earth observation, modelling and warning systems. The scheme supports weather, ocean, seismic, cryospheric and climate services through upgraded observational networks, improved data assimilation and high-performance computing. It has also strengthened disaster forecasting and communication for states, ministries and local bodies.
Expanded Observation Networks
The scheme has added and upgraded multiple monitoring systems across the country. The Doppler Weather Radar network has grown to 48 radars, including new X-band and C-band units. Upper-air stations, pilot balloon stations, Automatic Weather Stations and Agro-AWS networks have also been expanded. Coastal wind recorders, seismic stations and glacier monitoring systems have been strengthened in key regions.
Ocean, Glacier and Seismic Monitoring
Ocean observation capacity has improved through Argo floats, surface drifters, tide stations, GNSS receivers and wave-rider buoys. INCOIS has also commissioned HPC-Tarang for real-time ocean forecasting. In the Himalayas, integrated glacio-hydrological systems have been deployed in the Chandra Basin and Arunachal Pradesh. The national seismic network now has 165 operational stations, improving earthquake detection and risk assessment.
Forecast Accuracy and Disaster Services
PRITHVI has improved severe weather forecasting across India. Heavy rainfall warnings, cold wave alerts, thunderstorm predictions, cyclone track forecasts and heatwave lead time have all shown better accuracy. The system supports tsunami alerts, earthquake monitoring, storm surge forecasts and sea-level projection. It has also contributed to lower loss of life during cyclones and heatwaves through earlier warnings and better response.
Alert Dissemination and Local Use
The India Meteorological Department uses CAP alerts through the SACHET platform for heavy rain, cyclones, lightning, thunderstorm and dust storm warnings. These alerts are shared through SDMAs, websites, mobile apps and global platforms. Gram Panchayat Level Weather Forecasting has also been launched for nearly all Gram Panchayats. PRITHVI outputs are used in reservoir operations, flood preparedness, drought planning, irrigation scheduling and water-sharing decisions.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026