UPSC Notes

Weather Forecasting & Early Warning Systems in India

PYQs

9

Articles

1

Momentum

23

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

This mission directly addresses India's vulnerability to monsoon variability and extreme weather events, which have significant implications for agriculture, water resources, disaster management, and the economy. It showcases India's scientific capabilities and policy response to climate change, integrating advanced technology for societal welfare.

Robust weather forecasting and early warning systems are critical for disaster risk reduction, agricultural planning, and public safety in India, especially given the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. These systems rely on a combination of advanced scientific models, observational networks, and efficient dissemination mechanisms.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

Mission Mausam

A key initiative to strengthen climate modelling, satellite observations, atmospheric research, and numerical weather prediction (NWP) for improved forecasts.

Technological Advancements

Utilizes advanced Multi-Model Ensemble (MME), coupled dynamical climate models, NWP model upgrades, AI/ML applications, and a strengthened observation network (DWRs, AWSs, satellite data).

Dissemination & Last-Mile Connectivity

Employs a Decision Support System (DSS), Panchayat Mausam Seva Portal, mobile apps, web portals, and leverages Krishi Sakhis/Pashu Sakhis for widespread dissemination of advisories.

International Collaboration

Active participation in WMO programmes and collaboration with international meteorological organizations for data exchange and best practices.

Objective

Strengthen climate modelling, satellite observations, atmospheric research, and numerical weather prediction to improve understanding of changing monsoon patterns and extreme weather events.

Key Components

Adoption of Multi-Model Ensemble (MME), upgradation of Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models, strengthening observation networks (DWRs, AWSs), expansion of satellite-based observations, and use of AI/ML.

Dissemination

Utilizes multiple platforms including mobile applications, web portals, and the Panchayat Mausam Seva Portal for last-mile advisories, leveraging networks like Krishi Sakhis.

Indigenous Development

Focus on indigenous, technology-driven systems like IMD’s Decision Support System (DSS) under 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and development of climate reanalysis datasets (NGFS, IMDAA).

Reference table

Key Components of Mission Mausam

ComponentDescription
Climate ModellingAdvanced MME and coupled dynamical models for long-range forecasting.
Observation NetworkDWRs, AWSs, ARGs, upper-air systems, satellite-based observations.
Research & DevelopmentNWP model upgrades, AI/ML applications, climate reanalysis datasets.
DisseminationCitizen-centric systems, Panchayat Mausam Seva Portal, Krishi/Pashu Sakhis.

Reference table

Static syllabus anchors

TypeReference
Conceptual areaEmerging Information Technologies
Conceptual areaWelfare Schemes & Social Policies
Conceptual areaSpace Science & Exploration
Conceptual areaClimate Change & Conventions
Conceptual areaPhysical & Regional Geography

Reference table

Institutions & roles

BodyRole
India Meteorological Department (IMD)Implements
Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM)Research
Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)Overall program leadership and funding for weather and climate services
Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)Operational forecasting, observation network management, and dissemination
National Centre For Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF)Develops and operates nwp models and climate reanalysis systems
Ministry of Panchayati RajCollaborates for last-mile dissemination via panchayat mausam seva portal
Ministry of Rural DevelopmentLeverages krishi sakhis and pashu sakhis for last-mile advisories
World Meteorological Organization (WMO)Facilitates international collaboration and data exchange
Phase IIIExam lens

Prelims angle

Overview

Prelims angle: Definition-based questions

Prelims angle: Terminology-based question

Quick revision

  • Mission Mausam integrates modelling, observations, research, and dissemination.
  • Utilizes MME, NWP, DWRs, AWSs, satellite data, and AI/ML.
  • Citizen-centric approach with DSS and Panchayat Mausam Seva Portal.
  • Ensures last-mile connectivity via e-GramSwaraj, Krishi/Pashu Sakhis.
  • Crucial for disaster preparedness and agricultural advisories.

High-confidence PYQs

Topic timeline

Emerging Information TechnologiesWelfare Schemes & Social PoliciesSpace Science & ExplorationClimate Change & Conventions

PARLIAMENT QUESTION: ADVANCING MONSOON SCIENCE, CLIMATE RESEARCH AND WEATHER FORECASTING

05 Aug 2026 · Mission Mausam is MoES's initiative to enhance monsoon forecasting and climate resilience through advanced modelling, observation networks, satellite data, AI/ML, and last-mile dissemination, crucial for India's climate-sensitive economy.

Read article

Related topics

Current topic

Weather Forecasting & Early Warning Systems in India

Practice writing on this topic

UPSC has asked 9 linked questions on Weather Forecasting & Early Warning Systems in India in Mains. Write an answer to one — and get it evaluated.

UPSC Prelims PYQs on Weather Forecasting & Early Warning Systems in India

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