The government has launched the ambitious ‘Mission Mausam’ initiative aimed at transforming India into a “weather-ready and climate-smart” nation, Union Minister of State for Earth Sciences Dr. Jitendra Singh informed the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.

The scheme, with a total outlay of ₹2,000 crore for the period 2024–2026, seeks to develop advanced weather surveillance technologies, strengthen forecasting capabilities, and improve last-mile dissemination systems. The budget allocation includes ₹258 crore for the financial year 2024–25 and ₹1,742 crore for 2025–26.

Dr. Singh said the scheme focuses on enhancing atmospheric observation networks using next-generation radars, wind profilers, and satellite systems equipped with advanced payloads. The use of high-performance computing systems, Earth system models, and AI/ML-based data tools will also be central to the mission.

A key element of Mission Mausam is the development of a state-of-the-art Decision Support System (DSS) to improve disaster preparedness and weather communication at the local level.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), which has long provided customised weather forecasts for tourist and pilgrimage destinations, will leverage this mission to offer improved services. These include real-time updates for major events such as the Char Dham and Amarnath Yatras, as well as the Maha Kumbh Mela, held earlier this year.

“Mission Mausam will significantly enhance our ability to monitor and forecast extreme weather and climate events. It will help tourists and tourism-related businesses plan better and reduce losses caused by adverse weather,” the minister said.