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Why in the News?
On January 14, 2025, during the 150th Foundation Day celebrations of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the IMD Vision-2047 document. The vision sets ambitious targets for India’s meteorological capabilities, aiming for zero disaster-related deaths and 100% weather detection by 2047.
Key Takeaways:
Zero Disaster Deaths:
The vision aims to eliminate deaths due to severe weather events by 2047 through accurate and timely weather forecasting.
Focus on effective disaster management and early public warning systems.
Enhanced Forecast Accuracy:
IMD targets zero-error forecasting for up to 3 days and 90% accuracy for 5-day forecasts.
Severe weather forecasts aim for 80% accuracy (7 days) and 70% accuracy (10 days).
Comprehensive Weather Detection:
Plans to achieve 100% detection of all severe weather events at village and household levels.
Advanced observational systems with upgraded radars, satellites, and remote sensing technologies will support this goal.
Launch of ‘Mission Mausam’:
A new initiative to transform India into a ‘Weather-ready and Climate-smart’ nation.
Focus on cutting-edge technologies like next-generation radars, high-performance computing systems, and high-resolution atmospheric observations.
Historical Context and Achievements:
Established in 1875, IMD has been pivotal in advancing meteorological science.
Accurate cyclone warnings have reduced fatalities from 10,000 (1999) to nearly zero in recent years.
The number of Doppler Weather Radars increased from 15 in 2014 to 39 in 2023, improving land coverage by 35%.
Global Contributions:
IMD supports neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka with systems like the Flash Flood Guidance System.
Future focus includes supporting disaster management, agriculture, aviation, and public safety while addressing global climate challenges.
Significance:
The IMD Vision-2047 represents a major step toward building a climate-resilient India by reducing vulnerabilities to extreme weather and enhancing meteorological capabilities. Initiatives like ‘Mission Mausam’ and advancements in weather technologies aim to position India as a global leader in meteorological science and disaster management.
About the India Meteorological Department (IMD):
Establishment:
Founded in 1875.
It is one of the oldest meteorological services in the world.
Parent Organization:
Operates under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India.
Headquarters:
Located in New Delhi, India.
Global Contributions:
Provides weather information and guidance to neighboring countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Participates in global climate monitoring and contributes to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
Key Initiatives:
Mission Mausam: Aims to transform India into a weather-ready and climate-smart nation.
Vision-2047: Targets zero disaster-related deaths and 100% weather detection by the year 2047.
Major Areas of Focus:
Monsoon monitoring.
Disaster management and preparedness.
Climate change and environmental research.

Legacy of Indian Army Day
Indian Army Day is observed every year on January 15 to honour the bravery and sacrifices of soldiers who have dedicated their lives to the protection of the nation.
The day marks the historic event of General K M Cariappa assuming command of the Indian Army in 1949, becoming the first Indian Commander-in-Chief after the departure of General Sir F R R Bucher, the last British Commander-in-Chief.
Key Highlights of the 77th Army Day
Theme for 2025: ‘Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena’ (Capable India, Empowered Army), showcasing the Indian Army’s dedication to strengthening national security and defence capabilities.
For the first time, the all-women Agniveer contingent participated in the Army Day parade, marking a significant milestone in gender inclusion in the armed forces.
Pune hosted the Army Day parade for the first time, reflecting the Union government’s effort to hold national events outside the capital. This is the third instance of the parade being held outside New Delhi.