Commemorating 150 Years of the India Meteorological Department (IMD): Evolution from Forecasting to Management
Dr. P.S. Goel
Former Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is celebrating 150 years of its establishment on January 14, 2025. Founded in 1875 to study the Indian monsoon, the IMD is one of the oldest government departments and a cornerstone of India’s weather and climate services. Over the years, it has evolved from a basic weather service provider to a scientific institution equipped with cutting-edge technology and methodologies.
Formation of the Ministry of Earth Sciences
In 2006, India became the first country to establish a dedicated Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), integrating weather, climate, ocean, and geoscience services under a single framework. This was a transformative step, led by the then-Secretary Dr. P.S. Goel, who spearheaded the formation of the ministry to align ocean and atmospheric sciences as a coupled system.
MoES incorporated institutions such as the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), and the National Center for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR). These institutions play a critical role in polar research, ocean technology, and forecasting services. IMD was brought under MoES in 2006, marking a shift towards integrating weather forecasting with advanced scientific research.
IMD’s Legacy and Contributions
Originally established by the British, IMD focused on monsoon studies and pilot weather briefings until India’s independence. Post-independence, IMD’s role expanded under the Department of Science and Technology but faced challenges due to limited infrastructure and reliance on conventional techniques. Its transfer to MoES marked a new era of scientific transformation.
Under MoES, IMD improved its observation network with advanced Doppler Weather Radars, Automatic Weather Stations, and Radiosondes, adopting physics-based numerical modelling. The introduction of a scientific cadre transformed IMD into a research-driven organization. Today, IMD’s weather forecasts, especially for cyclones and extreme weather events, are globally recognized for their accuracy.
Future Directions
India remains an agrarian economy, heavily reliant on accurate and timely weather forecasts. Recognizing this, MoES launched Mission Mausam in 2024 to further enhance weather and climate services. Key focus areas include:
- Expanding observation networks with Doppler Radars and ocean-compatible systems.
- Developing satellite-based observations with ISRO’s collaboration.
- Enhancing computational power with supercomputers (22 petaflops) and exploring Quantum Computing for more precise forecasts.
- Strengthening agrometeorological services to provide farmer-specific weather information.
Efforts are also being made to study innovative weather management techniques like cloud seeding for artificial rain and mitigating extreme weather events like hailstorms and flooding.
IMD’s Global Role and Public Outreach
As a member of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), IMD contributes to global weather and climate monitoring. On its 150th anniversary, IMD has engaged in public outreach activities to raise awareness about its pivotal role in serving society. The department aims to uphold its mission of Science for Service of the People.
Celebrating 150 years, IMD stands as a testament to India’s progress in meteorological and climate sciences. Its journey from a colonial weather bureau to a globally respected scientific institution reflects the nation’s commitment to innovation and service. As India continues to lead in earth sciences, IMD remains central to addressing challenges posed by climate change and advancing sustainable development.
