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India is set to revolutionize its weather forecasting capabilities with the launch of "Mission Mausam," a comprehensive initiative designed to address the country's growing climate challenges. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, hailed the mission as a "game-changer" while inaugurating the 14th Asia-Oceania Meteorological Satellite Users' Conference (AOMSUC-14) on December 4, 2024. The conference, attended by leading meteorological experts from across the Asia-Oceania region, highlights India's growing influence in the field of satellite meteorology and climate science.

Mission Mausam, the first initiative of its kind in India, aims to enhance weather predictions and improve disaster preparedness. Dr. Singh emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the mission reflects India’s global commitment to tackling climate issues and will help the nation become a key player in international climate discussions.

“Mission Mausam has garnered global attention due to its innovative approach. It is poised to change the way we forecast severe weather events and manage climate-related challenges,” Dr. Singh said. The mission will also contribute to India’s "Neighbourhood First" policy, providing critical meteorological data to neighboring countries in the region.

AI, Satellites, and Global Collaboration Boost Forecast Accuracy

Dr. Singh also highlighted India’s impressive progress in satellite meteorology, citing the country’s self-reliance in weather forecasting thanks to advancements in satellite technology. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) have pioneered the use of satellites like GSAT-30, INSAT-3DR, and the upcoming GISAT series to enhance weather monitoring. These technologies enable real-time tracking of cyclones, improved monsoon predictions, and more timely disaster alerts.

India’s commitment to advancing forecasting accuracy has led to a significant 40-50% improvement in the prediction of severe weather events, such as cyclones, heavy rainfall, and heatwaves, over the past decade. These advances have played a key role in reducing loss of life and damage caused by extreme weather events.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in weather forecasting systems is also helping India stay ahead of the curve. These technologies allow for more precise predictions by analyzing vast amounts of meteorological data. The IMD is now leveraging these tools to refine forecasts, providing citizens with better information to prepare for weather-related emergencies.

Fostering Regional Unity and Global Leadership

Dr. Singh praised the AOMSUC-14 conference as an essential platform for fostering regional collaboration in satellite meteorology. It brought together leading satellite operators from across Asia, including the Japan Meteorological Agency, the China Meteorological Administration, and the Korea Meteorological Administration, reinforcing the importance of international cooperation in addressing climate change and weather-related disasters.

The conference also emphasized India’s role in providing technical support and satellite data to developing nations. The training programs and capacity-building efforts under AOMSUC ensure that countries across the Asia-Oceania region can utilize advanced satellite technology to enhance their own disaster management and climate adaptation strategies.

“We are not only advancing our own capabilities, but we are also helping our neighbors strengthen their meteorological systems,” Dr. Singh stated. “This is part of India’s larger commitment to regional stability and sustainability.”