India has launched a new artificial intelligence-based weather forecasting system designed to deliver hyper-local monsoon and rainfall predictions. The initiative aims to improve disaster preparedness, agriculture planning, and public decision-making across the country.

The announcement was made by Jitendra Singh on May 12 during an event held by the Ministry of Earth Sciences in New Delhi. The new services were developed jointly by the India Meteorological Department, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, and National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting.

AI Forecasts To Support Farmers Across India

The first system is an AI-enabled monsoon advance forecasting platform. It will provide forecasts every Wednesday for up to four weeks in advance. The service will initially cover 16 Indian states and more than 3,000 sub-districts.

Officials said the forecasts will help farmers make decisions related to sowing, irrigation, harvesting, and crop protection. The information will be distributed through the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare network and digital platforms.

The system combines AI forecasting models, statistical techniques, and extended-range weather prediction tools. Authorities said the goal is to improve local accuracy and provide timely weather guidance before extreme conditions develop.

Uttar Pradesh Pilot Brings 1-Km Rainfall Forecasts

The second product launched is a high-resolution rainfall forecast system for Uttar Pradesh. The pilot service can generate rainfall forecasts at a 1-kilometer spatial resolution up to 10 days in advance.

The platform uses data from Doppler Weather Radars, satellites, automatic rain gauges, and weather stations. Scientists said the system can support sectors including water management, renewable energy, urban planning, and infrastructure development.

India Expands Weather Technology Network

Government officials said India has increased its Doppler Weather Radar network from around 17 units a decade ago to nearly 50 today. Another 50 radars are planned under Mission Mausam.

According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences, severe weather forecast accuracy in India has improved by nearly 40 percent over the past decade. Cyclone track and landfall predictions have also improved significantly in recent years.