The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) rings in its 150th year of service with a brand-new logo. The new design embodies the spirit of IMD’s significant contributions to weather and climate services in India, featuring a vibrant mix of orange and green hues. The number 150 is cleverly embedded within the organization’s existing logo, which symbolizes the monsoon winds sweeping across the nation.
A Brief Overview of India Meteorological Department
Established in 1875, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) serves as the National Meteorological Service of India. It works under the Ministry of Earth Sciences of the Government of India and has its headquarters stationed in New Delhi. IMD also holds the honour of being one of the six Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres recognized by the World Meteorological Organization.
Roles and Responsibilities of IMD
Central to the mission of IMD is the collection of meteorological observations and the provision of current and forecast meteorological information. This valuable data aids the optimal operation of weather-dependent areas such as agriculture, irrigation, shipping, aviation, and offshore oil explorations.
In addition, IMD shoulders the crucial duty of issuing warnings against severe weather phenomena like tropical cyclones, norwesters, dust storms, heavy rains and snow, cold and heat waves, which can potentially lead to massive destruction of life and property.
Furthermore, the department offers indispensable meteorological statistics needed for various fields, including agriculture, water resource management, industries, oil exploration and other nation-building activities. Alongside this, IMD actively conducts and promotes research in the field of meteorology and related disciplines.
An Introduction to Meteorology
Meteorology stands as the scientific study of the Earth’s atmosphere, with its primary focus on comprehending and forecasting weather patterns, atmospheric phenomena, and climate. It revolves around analyzing atmospheric conditions, such as temperature, humidity, air pressure, wind, and precipitation, to predict weather and scrutinize the processes that govern the Earth’s atmospheric system.
Major Initiatives Related to Meteorology in India
The National Monsoon Mission (NMM) marked a significant initiative when it was launched by the Government of India in 2012. Its vision centers upon the development of a state-of-the-art dynamical prediction system for monsoon rainfall on different time scales.
Another noteworthy tool for the dissemination of weather information and warnings is the ‘Mausam App.’ Designed with an engaging and user-friendly interface, this app plays a vital role in making meteorological data accessible to the masses.
Enhancing accuracy in long-range weather forecasting and surveillance, Doppler Weather Radars (DWR) stand as another shining achievement in the field of meteorology in India. Operating on the Doppler principle, these radars utilize a parabolic dish antenna and a foam sandwich spherical radome. This technology equips DWR with the capability to measure rainfall intensity, wind shear and velocity, and locate a storm center and the direction of a tornado or gust front.