Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, visited the India Meteorological Department (IMD) today to review its innovative Web-GIS based Multi-Hazard Early Warning Decision Support System (DSS), which has achieved a remarkable cost saving of ₹250 crore.
Dr. Singh praised IMD for its self-reliant, technology-driven, and citizen-centric forecasting platform that significantly enhances disaster preparedness and public safety across India. By eliminating reliance on foreign vendors, IMD’s DSS has effectively saved ₹5.5 crore in annual maintenance costs, aligned perfectly with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision for self-sufficiency.
The Minister examined another pivotal initiative, “Mausamgram” (Har Har Mausam, Har Ghar Mausam), a citizen-focused weather information platform that furnishes hyperlocal forecasts at a granular village level. This robust system provides hourly forecasts for 36 hours, three-hourly predictions for up to 5 days, and six-hourly forecasts for a duration of 10 days. Users can conveniently access these forecasts through inputs such as PIN code, location name, or by selecting their state, district, block, or gram panchayat. “Mausamgram” is available in all official Indian languages, ensuring that every citizen can access vital weather information effortlessly.
The IMD has also upgraded its forecast and alert generation processes, extending the lead time for severe weather from 5 to 7 days. This modernization has reduced forecast preparation time by three hours and simultaneously improved accuracy by 15–20%. Such advancements play a crucial role in timely disaster preparedness.
During discussions with IMD officials, Dr. Singh stressed the importance of integrating AI-based tools into “Mausamgram” to create a more interactive and user-friendly experience. He advocated for the enhancement of the Multi-Hazard Early Warning System to deliver clear and actionable alerts, enabling citizens to respond effectively in times of need.
In recognition of their laudable efforts, Dr. Singh congratulated the IMD team for receiving the National Award for e-Governance 2025 at the 28th National Conference on e-Governance held in Visakhapatnam. This award underscores IMD’s achievement in providing exemplary digital public service delivery through the DSS.
The Minister also highlighted IMD’s successes under the Special Swachhata Program, which has generated ₹30 lakh from the disposal of e-waste and old files, effectively clearing 600 square meters of space. His visit also included participation in the “Special Swachhata Program 5.0” at IMD’s headquarters, Mausam Bhavan, where he planted a sapling as part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign and honored 50 “Safai Mitras” for their dedicated service.
Looking ahead, Dr. Singh outlined the ambitious Mission Mausam project, which aims to install advanced meteorological instruments by 2030. This initiative plans to refine IMD’s forecasting capabilities, allowing for a 5×5 km-scale hazard forecasting, dynamic impact-based forecasting, and refined risk-based early warnings. The initiative seeks to ensure last-mile connectivity to guarantee that early warnings effectively reach every household, fulfilling the vision of “Har Har Mausam, Har Ghar Mausam.”
