150 Years of India Meteorological Department (IMD)

150th Anniversary

150 Years of India Meteorological Department (IMD)

Established in 1875, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) is among India's oldest scientific institutions focused on weather forecasting and disaster management. As it celebrates its 150th anniversary on January 15, 2025, the IMD remains crucial in monitoring weather patterns.

Posted byShivam Published On January 13th, 2025

150 Years of India Meteorological Department (IMD)

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), established in 1875, is one of the oldest scientific institutions in India dedicated to weather forecasting and disaster preparedness. As it marks its 150th anniversary on January 15, 2025, the IMD continues to play a pivotal role in tracking weather patterns, issuing cyclone warnings, monitoring earthquakes, and studying atmospheric changes.

Evolution of Meteorology in India

Ancient Roots: Early texts like the Upanishads (circa 3000 B.C.) discuss weather phenomena, including cloud formation, rain cycles, and seasons.

Modern Meteorology: Scientific advancements began in the 17th century with the invention of the thermometer, barometer, and gas laws.

First Observatory: Established in 1785 in Kolkata (Calcutta) to conduct weather studies.

Foundation of IMD

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

The first Meteorological Reporter was Henry Francis Blanford.

IMD’s creation was accelerated after the 1864 Calcutta cyclone, which killed over 60,000 people, and the 1866 Orissa famine, caused by failed monsoons.

IMD’s Role in India’s Development

IMD has expanded to operate six Regional Meteorological Centres and state-level centres in all capitals.

These are located in Chennai, Guwahati, Kolkata, Mumbai, Nagpur and New Delhi.

It became a member of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1949 after India’s independence.

IMD provides weather forecasts, cyclone alerts, earthquake monitoring, and pollution tracking to help the country prepare for natural disasters.

IMD’s Infrastructure and Operations

Uses a complex communication network for data collection from ground observatories, naval ships, atmospheric balloons, and satellites.

Generates warnings for extreme weather events to safeguard lives and property.

Significance of IMD

The IMD’s accurate forecasting has been crucial in reducing disaster impacts over the years.

It continues to improve weather forecasting technologies to strengthen India’s climate resilience and disaster management capabilities.

IMD’s Milestone

Year Milestone Details

1785 First Observatory Established in Kolkata (Calcutta)

1864 Calcutta Cyclone Killed 60,000 people, prompting IMD’s creation

1875 IMD Foundation Established by the British government

1944 Headquarters Shift Moved from Kolkata to New Delhi

1949 Member of WMO IMD joined the World Meteorological Organization

2025 150th Anniversary Celebrating 150 years of service

Key Functions of IMD

Weather Forecasting: Monitors monsoon, cyclones, and rainfall.

Disaster Warnings: Provides alerts for cyclones, storms, and extreme weather.

Earthquake Monitoring: Tracks seismic activities across the country.

Pollution Tracking: Monitors air quality and atmospheric pollution.

Climate Services: Supports agriculture, aviation, water management, and disaster preparedness.

Significance of IMD’s 150th Anniversary

The 150th anniversary of IMD marks a significant milestone in India’s progress in meteorology and disaster management.

IMD’s continuous upgrades in forecasting technology and data collection systems have made it a vital institution for ensuring the country’s climate resilience and public safety.

Summary/Static Details

Why in the news? 150 Years of India Meteorological Department (IMD)

Established 1875 by the British Government of India

First Meteorological Reporter Henry Francis Blanford

Purpose Centralize weather data collection and improve forecasting

Significance One of the oldest government departments; crucial for weather forecasting and disaster preparedness

IMD’s 150th Anniversary January 15, 2025

Historical Trigger 1864 Calcutta cyclone and 1866 Orissa famine

Initial Headquarters Kolkata (then Calcutta)

Current Headquarters New Delhi (since 1944)

WMO Membership Joined the World Meteorological Organization in 1949

First Observatory Established in 1785 in Kolkata

Key Functions Weather forecasting, disaster warnings, earthquake monitoring, pollution tracking, climate services

Regional Centres 6 Regional Meteorological Centres and state-level centres in all capitals

Infrastructure Uses data from ground observatories, naval ships, atmospheric balloons, and satellites

Technological Advancements Continuously upgrading weather forecasting systems to improve accuracy

Significance Today Crucial for disaster preparedness, agriculture, aviation, water management, and climate resilience

Historical Evolution Traces roots to ancient texts (Upanishads) discussing weather phenomena

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