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The short range forecast issued by Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) is on par with other countries of the world. IMD has been issuing Forecast of seasonal rainfall during southwest monsoon, using models indigenously developed for the purpose. These models have not been able to forecast some of the droughts in recent years due to the complex nature of the summer monsoon. Since no other country issues seasonal forecasts in respect of the southwest monsoon, there are no global standards to go by. However, the equipment and mathematical models need upgradation to reduce the margin of error since no science can accurately make prediction of seasonal rainfall. Besides, rainfall forecasting requires synergy between land based, space and ocean based observations for which a group has been set up to prepare new models, again to reduce the margin of error.
The medium range forecast is crucial for agricultural operations. To meet this requirement government has started a National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) at New Delhi. This center is functioning under Department of Science & Technology (DST) since 1988 and has been providing meteorological forecasts for agro-advisory purposes to 82 Agromet Advisory Units and also for other special situations.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Science & Technology and Ocean Development Shri Kapil Sibal in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.
UM/SPS/SB
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