India Celebrates 150 Years of IMD

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), established in 1875, is one of India’s oldest scientific institutions, specializing in weather forecasting and disaster preparedness.

Celebrating its 150th anniversary on January 15, 2025, the IMD remains instrumental in monitoring weather patterns, issuing cyclone alerts, tracking earthquakes, and studying atmospheric changes.

Evolution of Meteorology in India

• Ancient Roots: Early texts like the Upanishads (circa 3000 B.C.) explored weather phenomena, including cloud formation, rainfall, and seasonal cycles.

• Modern Meteorology: Progress began in the 17th century with the development of instruments like the thermometer and barometer, alongside advancements in gas laws.

• First Observatory: Established in Kolkata (then Calcutta) in 1785 for weather research.

Foundation of IMD

• Founded in 1875 by the British Government of India to centralize weather data collection.

• Henry Francis Blanford served as the first Meteorological Reporter.

• The IMD’s establishment was prompted by the devastating 1864 Calcutta cyclone, which claimed over 60,000 lives, and the 1866 Orissa famine caused by monsoon failures.

IMD’s Role in India’s Development

• The IMD has expanded its operations to include six Regional Meteorological Centres in Chennai, Guwahati, Kolkata, Mumbai, Nagpur, and New Delhi, along with state-level centres in all capitals.

• After India’s independence, the IMD became a member of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1949.

• It provides critical services such as weather forecasts, cyclone warnings, earthquake monitoring, and pollution tracking, aiding disaster preparedness and response.

IMD’s Infrastructure and Operations

• Utilizes an extensive communication network, gathering data from ground observatories, naval ships, atmospheric balloons, and satellites.

• Issues warnings for extreme weather events to protect lives and property.

Significance of IMD

• The IMD’s precise forecasts have significantly mitigated the impact of natural disasters over the years.

• It continues to enhance weather prediction technologies, bolstering India’s resilience to climate challenges and disaster management efforts.

Final Thoughts

As it celebrates 150 years of service, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) stands as a pillar of India’s scientific and disaster management framework.

From its colonial-era origins to becoming a global leader in meteorology, the IMD has played a crucial role in safeguarding lives and supporting national development.

With its continued focus on advanced forecasting, early warnings, and climate resilience, the IMD remains vital to India’s preparedness for an increasingly unpredictable climate future.