Year-End Review / Delhi, December 30, 2024 : As the year comes to a close, the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) unveiled an impressive array of accomplishments that underscore India’s advancements in earth sciences, climate research, and environmental sustainability. These achievements reflect the government’s commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science for societal benefit, disaster preparedness, and sustainable development.
PRITHVI Scheme Approved
The Union Cabinet approved the ambitious PRITHVi Vigyan scheme for 2021-2026, with a financial outlay of ₹4,797 crores. The scheme encompasses five key sub-programs aimed at advancing research in atmospheric sciences, ocean technology, polar science, seismology, and education.
Mission Mausam: A Game-Changer for Climate Science
On September 11, 2024, the Union Cabinet launched “Mission Mausam,” allocating ₹2,000 crores over two years. This transformative initiative seeks to revolutionize India’s capabilities in weather and climate research, enhancing early warning systems and disaster resilience.
Global Collaborations and Marine Conservation
India took a significant step in marine biodiversity conservation by signing the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. This agreement bolsters India’s strategic and research presence in international waters, opening avenues for innovation in marine biotechnology and conservation.
Revolutionary Infrastructure and High-Performance Computing
The Prime Minister inaugurated India’s most advanced Low-Temperature Thermal Desalination (LTTD) plant in Lakshadweep and launched MoES High-Performance Computers, “Arka” and “Arunika,” with a combined capacity of 22 petaflops. These developments will enhance weather forecasting accuracy, aiding disaster management and agricultural planning.
Exploration and Innovation in the Deep Ocean Mission
A historic milestone was achieved as scientists discovered an active hydrothermal vent 4,500 meters below the Indian Ocean’s surface. This discovery holds immense potential for mineral exploration and biological research.
Meteorological Advances
Several state-of-the-art facilities were inaugurated, including:
- Doppler Weather Radar in Uttarakhand.
- Heliport Automatic Weather Observing Systems (HAWOS) at Kedarnath and Arunachal Pradesh.
- Urban Radar Network in Mumbai, enhancing severe weather monitoring.
Blue Economy and Coastal Research
The Integrated Ocean Energy Atlas was unveiled, showcasing India’s potential to generate 9.2 lakh TWh of renewable energy from blue sources like tidal waves and salinity gradients. Coastal bio-shield rehabilitation projects in Tamil Nadu were also completed.
Global Recognition and Innovations
India’s oceanic mobile app “SAMUDRA” won the Geospatial World Excellence award, while innovations like the saline water lantern “ROSHNI” were recognized as top innovations, showcasing India’s prowess in oceanic technology.
Education and Outreach
India excelled at the International Earth Sciences Olympiad in Beijing, securing multiple medals. Workshops with BIMSTEC nations and high-level consultations on the Blue Economy further emphasized India’s leadership in regional and global climate initiatives.
150 Years of IMD
The India Meteorological Department celebrated its 150th anniversary, marking a legacy of accurate weather forecasting and launching the Panchayat Mausam Seva to enhance localized climate services.
Antarctic and Arctic Achievements
India hosted key international events, including the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting, and expanded its research endeavors in polar regions, including deploying advanced mooring systems and launching the first winter Arctic expedition.
Towards a Sustainable Future
The MoES successfully executed the Swachh Sagar Surakshit Sagar initiative, with active participation from global partners, including Norway. Initiatives like rainwater chemistry campaigns and decadal climate prediction systems cement India’s role as a global leader in climate research.
As India moves forward, these milestones not only highlight technological advancements but also reaffirm the country’s dedication to combating climate change and fostering sustainable development.
