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Mission Mausam: A Leap Forward in Atmospheric Sciences using GIS

September 12, 2024 (Thursday), New Delhi: The Government of India recently announced “Mission Mausam,” a two-year initiative aimed at advancing atmospheric sciences and weather forecasting capabilities.

The Ministry of Earth Sciences will oversee this ₹2,000 crore project, which seeks to enhance research, technology, and capacity in areas such as weather observation, modelling, and prediction. The mission will integrate advanced systems like high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to improve the accuracy of weather forecasts and timeliness across various temporal and spatial scales.

Key components of Mission Mausam include the deployment of state-of-the-art radars and satellite systems, the development of sophisticated Earth system models, and the establishment of a real-time data dissemination platform using a GIS-based automated decision support system.

These advancements will benefit various sectors, including agriculture, disaster management, defense, and transportation, by providing more reliable and timely weather information. Key areas of focus include:

• Enhanced weather forecasting: Improving the accuracy of forecasts for monsoon and air quality, early warning systems for extreme weather events like cyclones.
• Weather intervention: Developing strategies to manage fog, hail, and rain.
• Capacity building: Strengthening the skills and expertise of weather scientists and forecasters.
• Public awareness: Raising awareness about the importance of weather forecasting and its applications.

Three key institutes under the Ministry of Earth Sciences – the India Meteorological Department, the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, and the National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting – will play a central role in implementing Mission Mausam. The mission will be further supported by other institutions within the Ministry of Earth Sciences, and through collaborations with national and international organizations, academia, and industry. With these partnerships, India aims to solidify its position as a global leader in weather and climate sciences.