More

    In the Lok Sabha: Government Highlights Weather and Climate Preparedness Initiatives

    EnvironmentClimate changeIn the Lok Sabha: Government Highlights Weather and Climate...
    - Advertisment -

    In the Lok Sabha: Government Highlights Weather and Climate Preparedness Initiatives

    IMD’s dissemination system employs social media, mobile apps, and automated alerts to ensure timely warnings reach disaster management authorities and vulnerable populations. Enhanced early warning systems have reduced casualties in rural and coastal regions during severe weather events.

    Union Minister of State for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh, shared updates on critical climate phenomena, early warning systems, and advancements in weather radar networks in a series of written replies during the Lok Sabha session today.

    Leveraging Technology for Safety and Mitigation

    The minister highlighted the leveraging of technology for safety and mitigation. He said that the IMD’s dissemination system employs social media, mobile apps, and automated alerts to ensure timely warnings reach disaster management authorities and vulnerable populations. Enhanced early warning systems have reduced casualties in rural and coastal regions during severe weather events.

    The government’s comprehensive approach underscores its commitment to weather resilience, climate science, and safeguarding citizens from the growing threats of climate change.

    Impact of El Niño and La Niña on Indian Monsoons

    The Minister provided insights into the effects of El Niño and La Niña on India’s monsoons. Data since 1950 indicates that 16 El Niño years were recorded, of which 7 saw below-normal rainfall during the monsoon season. Notably, September rainfall is particularly sensitive to El Niño events, showing a stronger inverse relationship.

    - Advertisement -

    Conversely, La Niña, characterized by cooler Pacific Ocean temperatures, generally brings above-normal rainfall during the monsoon season, except in extreme north and northeastern India, which may experience below-normal precipitation. The winter season during La Niña years also tends to record lower temperatures.

    Early Warning Systems for Natural Disasters

    Highlighting India’s proactive measures to mitigate climate change impacts, Dr. Singh showcased the advancements in early warning systems and climate research. A state-of-the-art Earth System Model (ESM), developed by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, is generating regional climate projections. The National Climate Change Assessment Report, now publicly accessible, details human-induced changes affecting the Indian subcontinent, including a 0.7°C rise in surface air temperatures (1901–2018) and a 1°C increase in tropical Indian Ocean temperatures (1951–2015).

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has developed a Climate Hazards and Vulnerability Atlas for 13 critical meteorological events, aiding disaster preparedness. To further bolster readiness, the Union Cabinet has launched Mission Mausam, a INR 2,000 crore initiative to improve weather forecasting, early warning systems, and community resilience.

    Expansion of Doppler Weather Radar Network

    Mission Mausam also includes plans to expand the Doppler Weather Radar (DWR) network, with 87 additional radars to be installed by 2026. Currently, 39 radars provide coverage across India, with new installations enhancing localized forecasts and accuracy. These radars feed data into advanced numerical weather prediction models, improving early warnings for extreme weather events.

    - Advertisement -

    LEAVE A REPLY

    Please enter your comment!
    Please enter your name here

    Latest news

    Sri Lanka’s Elephant Corridor Plan ‘Unscientific’

    Nearly 5,000 elephants and 1,600 people have been killed in the last 15 years in clashes between elephants and humans in Sri Lanka, home to one of the largest remaining populations of Asian elephants, according to official figures.

    New Projections Show Extreme Glacier Loss Already at 2°C

    Staying close to 1.5°C on the other hand preserves at least some glacier ice in all regions, even Scandinavia, with 20-30 per cent remaining in the four most sensitive regions; and 40-45 per cent in the Himalayas and Caucuses; stressing the growing urgency of the 1.5°C temperature goal and rapid decarbonization to achieve it.

    Government Extends Interest Relief for Farmers, Reinforces KCC and MISS as Pillars of Agricultural Credit

    Through the KCC framework, farmers benefit from revolving credit facilities for up to five years. This flexible structure allows them to draw and repay funds as per their seasonal requirements without having to reapply for loans each season.

    Legal Battle Brews Over Rampant Illegal Sand Mining in Meghna River

    The massive profits coupled with a weak legal framework have drawn influential individuals with political connections into the sand mining business, making it dangerous for environmental activists and journalists to speak out.
    - Advertisement -

    Yunus Warns of ‘War-Like Situation’ Amid Political Crisis and Rising Tensions

    The high-stakes meeting brought together 20 leaders from various political parties and organisations in two separate sessions, as Yunus sought to shore up support amid reports of internal tensions within his interim government and growing external pressure.

    Vice President Calls for Direct Subsidies and Agri-Entrepreneurship at Madhya Pradesh Conclave

    He urged agro-based industries, NGOs, MPs, and MLAs to adopt villages and help build agri-entrepreneurial ecosystems.

    Must read

    Sri Lanka’s Elephant Corridor Plan ‘Unscientific’

    Nearly 5,000 elephants and 1,600 people have been killed in the last 15 years in clashes between elephants and humans in Sri Lanka, home to one of the largest remaining populations of Asian elephants, according to official figures.

    New Projections Show Extreme Glacier Loss Already at 2°C

    Staying close to 1.5°C on the other hand preserves at least some glacier ice in all regions, even Scandinavia, with 20-30 per cent remaining in the four most sensitive regions; and 40-45 per cent in the Himalayas and Caucuses; stressing the growing urgency of the 1.5°C temperature goal and rapid decarbonization to achieve it.
    - Advertisement -

    More from the sectionRELATED
    Recommended to you