In September 2021, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Google Asia Pvt Ltd to share cyclone-related advisories in the RA II region and develop a nowcast technique for location-specific rainfall prediction. This collaboration aims to harness technology and data-driven approaches to enhance cyclone monitoring and improve rainfall forecasts, thus strengthening disaster preparedness and management.
In addition to the collaboration with Google, IMD has been actively engaged in Public Private Partnerships (PPP) to disseminate forecasts and warning messages related to agricultural services. This innovative approach leverages the expertise of the private sector to enhance the reach and effectiveness of weather-related information, benefiting farmers and agricultural practices.
To bolster its observational capabilities, IMD has taken support from the Private Sector for the development of indigenous radars. These advanced radars play a crucial role in monitoring weather patterns and providing timely information to the public and authorities.
Furthermore, IMD has forged a partnership with the Climate Resilient Observing System Promotion Council (CROPC) to improve thunderstorm and lightning-related weather services. By collaborating with CROPC, IMD aims to enhance its ability to predict and manage extreme weather events, ensuring public safety and reducing weather-related risks.
To foster innovation and support the growth of the domestic meteorological sector, IMD has invited proposals from Indian Startups for the development of various meteorological applications and services. This initiative encourages homegrown talent and expertise to contribute to the advancement of weather forecasting and related services.
In its efforts towards indigenization, IMD has successfully adopted the “Satellite Tracked Lagrangian Drifter with Barometric Pressure Sensor and INSAT communication” technology, with support from the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT). This development enhances ocean observation capabilities, aiding in the accurate prediction of cyclones and weather patterns affecting coastal regions.
Moreover, IMD has explored modernizing its observational instrumentation, with the potential replacement of the optical, odolite-based Pilot balloon system with GPS-based Pilotsonde systems. This technological upgrade will significantly improve the accuracy of upper air wind data and lead to more precise weather forecasting services.
In line with the Government’s Make in India policy, IMD proactively procures locally manufactured observational instrumentation such as Doppler weather radars and automatic rain gauges. This step not only strengthens domestic manufacturing but also reinforces the department’s commitment to self-reliance in critical meteorological infrastructure.
