IMD to ensure better days for small farmers

Subhasish Mitra (Wide Angle)

Small farmers are often victims of vagaries of nature. But, very soon they may expect better days, thanks to the India Meteorological Department.

 

The IMD says it will soon forecast weather at panchayat-level to help the small farmers plan their cultivation in a better manner.

 

This will also cut down climate-induced losses.

 

The 'Panchayat Mausam Seva' will provide them with all weather parameters such as maximum and minimum temperatures, humidity and wind speed, in addition to severe weather warnings.

 

This information will be available in 12 Indian languages, besides English and Hindi, according to IMD chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra.

 

The weather office will also launch the 'Har Har Mausam, Har Ghar Mausam' initiative and the National Framework for Climate Services on Monday when it kicks off year-long celebrations to mark its 150th anniversary.

 

India's technological prowess has made it possible for the IMD to take its forecasting capability from the block to panchayat level.

It is the endeavour of the Met department to mainstream use of weather and climate information as part of everyday activity.

 

The IMD is currently helping disseminate agriculture-related weather observations and forecasts at the block level. "Now, we are moving a step further and reaching the panchayat level," Mohapatra said.

 

One can write the name of the place or provide the pincode of the area or they can give latitude and longitude of the place and the forecast will be provided in a seamless manner. All weather parameters such as maximum and minimum temperatures, humidity, wind speed will be covered. It will also provide severe weather warnings.

 

The IMD considers it a priority to minimize the losses of small farmers dependent on agriculture in rainfed areas. A small farmer in rainfed areas stands to gain Rs 12,500 if he utilises the weather forecast and acts accordingly.

 

The IMD will launch the "National Framework for Climate Services" with the objective of providing climate information and services to all sectors, including agriculture, energy, disaster management, power, transport, health, and water, to help them make informed decisions and mitigate climate risks.

 

The Met department, through its weather forecasts, has been able to minimize losses in sectors such as power, health, transport and, of course, agriculture.