The recent decision by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs to continue the Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services (ACROSS) Scheme into the forthcoming 15th financial cycle (2021-2026) has sparked interest. This continuation also encompasses the scheme’s eight sub-schemes. The ACROSS Scheme pertains to the atmospheric science programs of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and is designed to address various dimensions of weather and climate services.
Understanding the ACROSS Scheme
The ACROSS Scheme is an initiative born out of the Ministry of Earth Sciences’ (MoES) atmospheric science programs. It aims to tackle different aspects of weather and climate services. The Scheme is devised as an umbrella scheme that accommodates eight separate but interconnected sub-schemes.
These sub-schemes are diverse in their purpose and intended outcomes. They include the Commissioning of Polarimetric Doppler Weather Radars (DWRs), Upgradation of Forecast System, Weather & Climate Services, Atmospheric Observations Network, Numerical Modelling of Weather and Climate, Monsoon Mission III, Monsoon Convection, Clouds and Climate Change (MC4), and High Performance Computing System (HPCS).
Responsibility for Implementation
Responsibility for the implementation of the ACROSS Scheme rests with the Ministry of Earth Sciences, who will delegate specific tasks to its institutes. These institutes include the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), and Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Service (INCOIS).
Each institute has a designated role to play in accomplishing the tasks set out by the ACROSS Scheme. These tasks range from complex technical challenges to practical operational functions, each requiring specialist knowledge and skillsets.
The Sub-Schemes of ACROSS
Each sub-scheme under the ACROSS umbrella offers a specific area of focus within the broader scope of weather and climate services. For instance, the Commissioning of Polarimetric Doppler Weather Radars (DWRs) sub-scheme concentrates on deploying advanced radar technology to enhance weather forecasting capabilities.
The Numerical Modelling of Weather and Climate focuses on the development and utilization of valuable numerical models to anticipate and understand weather and climate patterns. Similarly, the Monsoon Mission III is particularly concerned with studying and predicting monsoon patterns.
The Significance of the ACROSS Scheme
The significance of the ACROSS Scheme lies in its aspiration to provide improved weather, climate, and ocean forecast and services. This includes generating accurate and timely warnings for cyclones, storm surges, heat waves, and thunderstorms, which are crucial to prevent loss of life and property.
The implementation of the scheme not only aims at providing precise forecasts but also requires significant manpower at every stage. This translates into the creation of numerous employment opportunities, thus contributing positively to the economy.
Source: PIB
