PM Modi Celebrates 150 Years of IMD, Highlights Achievements
IMD Served Millions of Indians In One-and-a-Half Century
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today attended the 150th Foundation Day celebrations of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Addressing the gathering, he said that 150 years of IMD not only signifies the journey of IMD but also the glorious journey of modern science and technology in India. He said that IMD has served millions of Indians in these one-and-a-half centuries and has become a symbol of India's scientific progress. A commemorative postage stamp and coin were also released today to mark the achievements of IMD, the Prime Minister said. He said that a vision document outlining the future of IMD in the year 2047 has been released. In 2047, India will celebrate 100 years of independence. He congratulated the citizens on this momentous occasion of completion of 150 years of IMD .
The Prime Minister said that IMD, as part of its 150-year journey, had organized the National Meteorological Olympiad to engage the youth. He said that thousands of students participated in the event, which would further increase their interest in meteorology. The Prime Minister recalled his interaction with the youth at the exhibition held at the venue some time back and congratulated all the youngsters who have been a part of the occasion today.
Makar Sankranti is Celebrated All Over India
Prime Minister Modi highlighted that IMD was established on 15th January 1875, very close to Makar Sankranti. "We all know the importance of Makar Sankranti in the tradition of India. The Prime Minister said being a Gujarati, his favorite festival was Makar Sankranti. Prime Minister Modi further explained that Makar Sankranti marks the entry of the Sun into Capricorn and moving northwards, which is known as Uttarayan. He said this period reflects a gradual increase in sunlight in the northern hemisphere, leading to preparedness for farming. The Prime Minister said that Makar Sankranti is celebrated across India with various cultural expressions, from north to south and east to west. He conveyed his best wishes to all citizens on the occasion.
Highlighting India's rich history of meteorological expertise on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of IMD, Prime Minister Modi said that weather has been a primary factor influencing human development, and throughout history, people around the world have constantly tried to understand weather and environment. Talking about the rich history of India's meteorological expertise, the Prime Minister emphasized that traditional knowledge was documented, refined and studied intensively in ancient texts such as the Vedas, Samhitas and Surya Siddhanta.